Apple HomePod 2 Review: I'm Confused

TL;DR

The new HomePod is a confusing product from Apple, with some improvements but still lacking in features and value.

Transcript

foreign [Applause] look who we have here Mr shiny and new hey what's up uh why do you sound sarcastic no no we're we're just joking it looks just like Greg welcome back we were wondering if we'd see you again what do you mean again I'm brand new I just came out look at this what is he talking about I think it was that software update Craig we know ... Read More

Key Insights

• 👶 The new HomePod is an improved version of the original but still struggles to find its place in the market.
• 🔇 Sound quality remains impressive, but the lack of additional features and limitations of Siri hampers its value as a smart speaker.
• 👪 The addition of temperature and humidity sensors is a nice touch for home automation enthusiasts.
• 💦 The price drop is not significant enough to make it a more compelling option compared to other smart speakers.
• 😀 Apple may be hoping to revive interest in the HomePod, but it faces tough competition from Google and Amazon in the smart speaker market.
• 👤 The HomePod Mini is a more affordable and practical alternative for most users.
• 🍗 The decision to re-release an improved version of a product that previously flopped demonstrates Apple's persistence and willingness to try again.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the key differences between the original HomePod and the new one?

The new HomePod has a slightly different design, a new color option, removable power cable, and added temperature and humidity sensors. It also removed two tweeters and two microphones.

Q: Does the new HomePod still have good sound quality?

Despite the removal of some internal hardware, the new HomePod still delivers impressive sound quality with crisp and balanced sound, deep bass, and computational audio adjustments for different room shapes.

Q: Can the new HomePod be used as a home automation hub?

Yes, the new HomePod, as well as the HomePod Mini, have a thread radio and can be used as a matter hub for smart home devices.

Q: Is Siri still limited on the new HomePod?

Yes, Siri on the new HomePod still has limitations, such as inability to set Spotify as the default music app and lack of compatibility with non-Apple devices and pure Bluetooth connectivity.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The original HomePod was released in 2018 but didn't do well in the market.

• Apple then released the HomePod Mini, which sold better due to its lower price.

• The new HomePod is an improved version of the original, with some design changes and added features such as temperature and humidity sensors.