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Apple is bringing older devices on board with Siri AI for Apple TV, but not for the HomePod mini. Apple has confirmed that Siri AI will only run on the new HomePod mini 2. A previous report to the contrary has since been corrected.
On October 13th, Apple unveiled the HomePod mini 2 and announced Siri AI would be added via a later software update. It remained unclear whether the original HomePod mini from 2020 would also receive the new assistant.
A CNET report initially stated this, but it has since been corrected. Apple has confirmed to 9to5Mac that Siri AI will only be available on the HomePod mini 2.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Apple has confirmed that the first HomePod mini will not have Siri AI.
- In contrast, Siri AI also applies to older models of the Apple TV, starting with the second generation of the Apple TV 4K.
- Siri AI will initially launch on HomePod mini 2 and Apple TV only in English in eight countries.
- Germany, Austria and Switzerland are not included.
Which devices will get Siri AI?
Apple is taking a different approach with its two home devices. Siri AI is coming to Apple TV not only on the new model, but also on older devices from the second generation onwards. The HomePod mini, however, will only receive it on its successor.
| Device | Siri AI |
|---|---|
| HomePod mini 2 | Yes, via a later update. |
| HomePod mini (2020) | no |
| Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later) | Yes |
Apple has not yet announced any plans for the larger HomePod. A caption on Apple's order page suggests Siri AI for the HomePod 2, but this is not an official announcement.
Code in the software, lock on the devices
Siri AI is already built into the software. It was revealed back in September that the system behind Siri AI is present in the current HomePod software, but is deactivated on all previous models. According to Apple, this will remain the case for the first HomePod mini.
For owners in German-speaking countries, little will change
I find the confirmation for owners of the first HomePod mini in this country less disappointing than it sounds. Siri AI will initially launch on the speakers only in English and in eight countries; Germany, Austria, and Switzerland are not among them. Siri will also remain unchanged on a HomePod mini 2 for the time being.
Anyone spending €169 on the HomePod mini 2 shouldn't do so for Siri AI. Compared to the first model, the successor offers surround sound with four speakers and Sound Glow.
Do you already own a HomePod mini and would you replace it for Siri AI once the feature is available in German? Tell us in the comments if Siri AI is worth a new speaker to you.
