Apple unveiled the brand-new HomePod mini at its "Hi, Speed" event. The Siri speaker features a new design and many useful features. But how does it differ from the classic model?
In addition to the iPhone 12, Apple has introduced a completely new version of its own smart speaker. The brand new HomePod mini comes in a new spherical design and, like the classic version, is available in black and white. While the normal model costs around 320.70 euros, the mini version is already available for 96.50 euros.
HomePod mini & HomePod in comparison
The new Siri speaker basically has almost all the functions that the classic model offers. The touch surface also remains the same. However, there are also improvements. Unlike the normal HomePod, the mini version has Apple's U1 chip. This component improves the Handoff feature enormously. In addition, users near the device are shown personal listening suggestions. The prerequisite for this is an iPhone with a U1 chip. Apple itself explained the whole thing as follows:
It's great that the new Intercom feature is available on both the new HomePod mini and the existing HomePod. Most of the other key features of the original HomePod are included in the mini, such as multi-room audio, stereo pair support, Smart Home Hub, 360-degree audio, far-field microphones for Siri support, computer audio, and more.
These are the technical differences
But there are also fundamental differences that are important to some users. According to Apple, the new "Home Theater with Apple TV 4K" feature is only supported by the classic HomePod. The reason for this could be the surround sound function, which the mini model lacks. There are also some differences in the area of audio technology. The large Apple speaker has a high-excursion woofer with a special amplifier and a ring of seven tweeters, each equipped with its own amplifier. The HomePod mini, on the other hand, relies on a full-range driver and two passive woofers for powerful bass and clear high frequencies.
Small speaker, big sound
While the classic model has six microphones for the Siri feature, the HomePod mini only has four. The latter should not influence your purchase decision, however. Although the mini model certainly cannot keep up with the classic model, it can be assumed that the HomePod mini will still have significantly better sound than competing products such as Amazon's Echo Dot. Apple itself describes the whole thing as follows:
Packed with innovations, HomePod mini delivers unexpectedly big sound for a speaker of its size. At just 3.3 inches tall, it takes up almost no space but fills the entire room with rich, 360-degree sound that sounds amazing from every angle.
Siri Speaker: The Size Difference
The new Siri speaker uses Apple's S5 processor, which was already installed in the Apple Watch Series 5 and SE. The classic model, on the other hand, is powered by Apple's A8 chip. But how small is the HomePod mini compared to the classic model? The small Siri speaker is 84.3 mm high, 97.9 mm wide and weighs around 345 g.
The classic device, on the other hand, is 172 mm high, 142 mm wide and weighs a whopping 2.5 kg. There should therefore be no space problems. By the way - while the classic HomePod has a connected cable with a power adapter, the mini model is delivered with a connected USB-C cable. However, Apple includes the 20W charger with the device.
Can I pair the HomePod mini with the HomePod?
As already known, both versions of Apple's speakers support the stereo pair feature. However, the HomePod mini and HomePod cannot be used as a stereo pair. This means that anyone who wants to use Apple's smart speakers as a stereo pair needs two devices of the same version. But be careful - this does not mean that both versions of Apple's speakers do not work together. Of course, users can listen to music on both devices - even the brand new intercom function is of course supported across devices. Overall, many Apple fans will be happy about the brand new and significantly cheaper device. It should appeal to those who are price-conscious but at the same time want to stay in Apple's ecosystem. The device can be purchased for 96.50 euros from November 6th in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Spain, Great Britain and the USA. pre-ordered Delivery will begin on November 16th.
