Apple HomePod 2 Overview

• The second generation Apple HomePod has a different design, with a tall and stout look, a midnight color and an inset touch surface.
• A new feature is that the power cable is now removable, but this does not prevent it from leaving a staining pattern on wooden tables when sitting for an extended period of time.
• The HomePod 2 has two new sensors- a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor.
• It also includes a sound recognition feature, meaning that if it hears an alarm or a smoke detector, it will send a notification to your phone.
• The 99 dollar HomePod Mini has the same features as the HomePod 2, and activated by the latest HomePod software update.
• Inside the HomePod 2 has one woofer, 5 tweeters and 4 far field microphones, compared to the original HomePod with one woofer, 7 tweeters and 6 far field microphones.

Audio Quality

• The HomePod still has a crisp and balanced sound that is not distorted
• It produces good low sub-base rumbles even at lower volumes
• Computational audio adjusts sound based on location of HomePod and shape of room
• Two HomePods can be paired for a stereo pair, creating a sound that is bigger than expected
• Supports Dolby Atmos setup
• Sounds good enough to use as TV speakers but wouldn’t be recommended in larger rooms
• Impressive feat of audio engineering

Smart Features

• Quick pairing and beaming feature with iPhone
• Far field microphones can hear the user from across the room
• Can use Apple Music
• Default music app is still unable to be set to Spotify
• Cannot accept pairing with other devices than iPhone/AirPlay
• No audio jack
• No display to show info like running timers or other visuals

Conclusion

• Recommended to Apple fans who want to hear bad Siri in crystal clear audio
• HomePod Mini is still available for a lower cost and offers the same features
• Suggest other options from Google and Amazon for better results
• Samsung’s large size smart speaker still has not been released