The $149 HomePod mini 2 sounds slightly better and offers expanded connectivity, but neither improvement gives existing owners a compelling reason to upgrade.
Right – HomePod mini 2. Left – HomePod mini 1
Right – HomePod mini 2. Left – HomePod mini 1Six 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.
| Specification | HomePod mini (2020) | HomePod mini 2 (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch price | $99 | $149 |
| Processor | Apple S5 | Apple S10 |
| Audio hardware | Full-range driver, two passive radiators | Full-range driver, two passive radiators |
| Computational audio | Real-time tuning | Advanced real-time tuning |
| Microphones | Four | Three |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 4 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 6 |
| Siri | Standard Siri | Standard Siri, Siri AI coming later |
| Mac audio | Standard AirPlay | Persistent connection with compatible Macs |
| Apple TV surround | Standard playback and stereo pairing | Four-speaker surround with fourth-generation Apple TV 4K |
| Stereo pairing | Two original minis | Two mini 2 speakers |
| Sound Glow | Supported with software 27.2 | Supported |
| Smart home | Apple Home hub, Thread, temperature and humidity sensors | Apple Home hub, Thread, temperature and humidity sensors |
| Ultra Wideband | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 3.3 x 3.9 inches | 3.3 x 3.9 inches |
| Weight | 0.76 pound | 0.74 pound |
| Colors | White, blue, orange, yellow, midnight | White, blue, pink, green, midnight |