HomePod mini 2 review - Six years later, not enough reasons to upgrade yet

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The $149 HomePod mini 2 sounds slightly better and offers expanded connectivity, but neither improvement gives existing owners a compelling reason to upgrade.

Two small spherical smart speakers, one black and one white, sit side by side on a rustic wooden surface against a light wall with dark metal supports in the backgroundRight - HomePod mini 2. Left - HomePod mini 1

Six years after the original HomePod mini arrived, Apple's second-generation speaker brings more than a faster processor. New Mac audio capabilities, four-speaker surround sound for Apple TV 4K, and upgraded wireless hardware expand what the compact speaker can do beyond playing music.

The HomePod mini 2 launched on October 30, 2026, without Siri AI, one of its most anticipated features. Until Apple delivers that update, the newer model makes a stronger case for first-time buyers and people expanding their setups than for anyone replacing a perfectly good original.

SpecificationHomePod mini (2020)HomePod mini 2 (2026)
Launch price$99$149
ProcessorApple S5Apple S10
Audio hardwareFull-range driver, two passive radiatorsFull-range driver, two passive radiators
Computational audioReal-time tuningAdvanced real-time tuning
MicrophonesFourThree
Wi-FiWi-Fi 4Wi-Fi 6E
BluetoothBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 6
SiriStandard SiriStandard Siri, Siri AI coming later
Mac audioStandard AirPlayPersistent connection with compatible Macs
Apple TV surroundStandard playback and stereo pairingFour-speaker surround with fourth-generation Apple TV 4K
Stereo pairingTwo original minisTwo mini 2 speakers
Sound GlowSupported with software 27.2Supported
Smart homeApple Home hub, Thread, temperature and humidity sensorsApple Home hub, Thread, temperature and humidity sensors
Ultra WidebandYesYes
Dimensions3.3 x 3.9 inches3.3 x 3.9 inches
Weight0.76 pound0.74 pound
ColorsWhite, blue, orange, yellow, midnightWhite, blue, pink, green, midnight



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