The HomePod Mini has delighted many Apple fans since its launch in 2020. Its compact size and impressive sound make it a popular gadget.
Now, almost four years later, we are eagerly awaiting the HomePod Mini 2. The rumor mill is bubbling: new functions, improved design and exciting color options are on the table. But is it worth waiting for the new HomePod Mini 2, or should you take advantage of the next offer for the current HomePod Mini? In this guide, we take a look at the latest information and help you make your decision.
Release Date Rumors: When can we expect the HomePod Mini 2?
Review of previous publications
The first HomePod Mini was announced in October 2020. Apple fans loved its compact size and impressive sound. The original HomePod was released back in 2018, and the HomePod 2 followed four years later, in 2022. The wait between releases has been long, but Apple has never failed to surprise us.
Current forecasts and analyst opinions
Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known Apple analyst, expects the HomePod Mini 2 to be released in the second half of 2024. According to Kuo, we could also see a new HomePod 3 with a 7-inch display in 2025. So it's possible that Apple will combine the release of these two models.
Price predictions: How much will the HomePod Mini 2 cost?
Comparison with the original HomePod Mini
The original HomePod Mini cost £99/$99. The price was attractive to many Apple fans as it was significantly cheaper than the larger HomePod.
Expected price development
Experts expect the price of the HomePod Mini 2 to either stay the same or increase slightly. Apple may try to keep the price below £100/$100 to remain competitive, but a small price increase is also possible if new features and improvements are added.
New design: What changes can we expect?
color options and aesthetics
The HomePod Mini 2 could get new color options. Currently, the HomePod Mini comes in Space Gray, Blue, Yellow, White, and Orange. It is rumored that Space Gray will be replaced by Midnight, similar to the HomePod 2. New colors could give the HomePod Mini 2 a fresh and modern look.
Technical improvements
Tech improvements are always exciting. The HomePod Mini 2 is expected to get a new chipset. The current HomePod Mini uses the S5 chip, which is also found in the Apple Watch Series 5. The HomePod Mini 2 could get an S10 chip, which is used in the expected Apple Watch Series 10. This chipset would significantly improve the performance and efficiency of the device.
Improvements in WiFi 6E support are also likely. This would enable faster and more stable connections. Lower latency in connectivity is another benefit that would improve the user experience. Additionally, the HomePod Mini 2's microphones could be improved, resulting in clearer voice commands and better Siri integration.
Buy now or wait? Is the HomePod Mini 2 worth it?
Reasons for buying the current HomePod Mini
There are many reasons why you should buy a HomePod Mini now. One of the most important reasons is the price reductions. The current HomePod Mini could be significantly cheaper in sales than the expected launch price of the HomePod Mini 2. If you find a good deal, you can save money.
The current HomePod Mini already offers very good sound quality and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. The technology is proven and the software is stable. If you need a smart speaker system right away, the current HomePod Mini is a good choice.
Benefits of Waiting for the HomePod Mini 2
On the other hand, there are also reasons why you should wait for the HomePod Mini 2. The HomePod Mini 2 could come with improved technologies. A faster chip, like the S10, could significantly increase performance and efficiency. Improved WiFi 6E support and microphones are other expected improvements.
A newer model will also receive longer software updates and support. This is especially important if you plan on using the device for a long period of time. If you always prefer the latest technology and don't have an urgent need, it might be worth waiting for the HomePod Mini 2.
Update from July 15: Apple updates the HomePod Mini
On July 15, Apple updated the existing HomePod Mini with a new color. It is now available in "Midnight," replacing the almost identical "Space Gray" color. The device is still available in blue, orange, white, and yellow for the same price.
This change brings some consistency to the HomePod lineup, as both the second-generation HomePod and HomePod Mini are now offered in the Midnight color. Aside from this new color option, no other changes to the HomePod Mini were mentioned.
However, this surprising color update raises the question of when Apple plans to release a new model of the HomePod Mini. Although the HomePod Mini first launched in November 2020, there has been no announcement of a second model yet. This leaves us a little uncertain about when Apple will really update the HomePod Mini with new features and technical improvements. It will be interesting to wait for future announcements from Apple and see if the HomePod Mini 2 might arrive sooner than expected.
Is a first generation HomePod mini still worth it?
Whether you should buy now or wait for the HomePod Mini 2 depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you need a smart speaker system right away and find a good deal on the current HomePod Mini, it's a good decision to buy now. The current HomePod Mini offers excellent sound quality and integration into the Apple ecosystem.
However, if you want the latest features and longer software support and don't mind waiting, it might be worth waiting for the HomePod Mini 2. New color options, a more powerful chipset, and improved connectivity are some of the expected benefits of the new model.
Summary: HomePod Mini 2 – the best is yet to come
The HomePod Mini 2 is one of Apple's most anticipated devices. With rumors of new color options, a more powerful chipset, and improved connectivity, expectations are high. Analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo predict a release in the second half of 2024, possibly alongside a new HomePod 3 in 2025.
Price predictions suggest that the price of the HomePod Mini 2 will either stay the same or increase slightly. Apple may try to keep the price below £100/$100 to remain competitive.
The new design could include new color options and aesthetic improvements. Technical upgrades such as an S10 chip, WiFi 6E support, and improved microphones are also expected. These improvements could significantly improve performance and user experience.
Whether you buy a HomePod Mini now or wait for the new model depends on your personal needs. If you find a good deal on the current HomePod Mini and it meets your needs, it's a good decision to buy now. However, if you want the latest features and longer software support, it might be worth waiting for the HomePod Mini 2.
In any case, the HomePod Mini 2 will certainly raise the bar for smart speakers and represent an exciting new chapter in the Apple product line. Stay tuned for future announcements from Apple!
