Apple’s HomePod (2nd generation) claims to be smarter and music lover

Despite the absence of a keynote at the start of the year, Apple does not skimp on its announcements. After new Mac Mini and MacBook Pro, it’s the big HomePod’s turn to enjoy a makeover. Launched almost five years ago, the first HomePod had disappeared from the shelves for many months to make way for the HomePod Mini, a more discreet version, just as smart, but much less powerful. With this second generation, Apple therefore fills the void left by the first HomePod, which will undoubtedly delight consumers. aficionados from the first hour.

Identical look, but improved sound reproduction

The HomePod (2nd generation) uses the same sleek design as its predecessor, namely a cylindrical shape covered in mesh fabric with a large touch surface on top. However, the most observant will no doubt have noticed that the latter is no longer domed, but slightly depressed like the HomePod Mini. The HomePod (2nd generation) is also very slightly smaller (16.8 cm against 17.2 cm on the old version) and light (2.3 kg against 2.5 kg).

The major changes have been made to the acoustic architecture of the enclosure. If we still find a 4-inch (about 10 cm) woofer with long range and wide travel to ensure “rich and deep bass”, the HomePod (2nd generation) only has five tweeters compared to seven previously. These are always arranged all around the enclosure to offer a homogeneous 360° rendering.

It also embeds a new audio processing chip, the S7, which, combined with the internal microphone, should significantly improve the performance of space analysis. Indeed, the loudspeaker constantly analyzes its environment to adapt the sound reproduction to the room. Elsewhere, the HomePod (2nd generation) gains compatibility with Apple’s Spatial Audio and still supports Dolby Atmos streams.

With this new version, it is still possible to combine several speakers together and, why not, form a stereo set around an Apple TV for example (only with another latest generation HomePod). Like the other two HomePod models, this one announces that it is Bluetooth compatible, but it’s a safe bet that this connectivity will be ineffective for streaming music. AirPlay 2 therefore still seems to be the only way to play songs on this new HomePod.

Some new home automation

If the musical component of the speaker remains compartmentalized, we are delighted with the contribution of compatibility with the Matter standard. The HomePod (2nd generation) can thus serve as a hub and communicate with all Matter-compatible devices, and not just with HomeKit.

The speaker can recognize up to six different voices and offer different suggested actions depending on which iPhone is closest. It also knows how to recognize alarm signals, such as smoke detectors, and send a notification to the user. It also incorporates a temperature and humidity sensor, providing more options for controlling the home. Moreover, it is possible to create automations by voice thanks to the Siri assistant.

The new HomePod (2nd generation) can already be pre-ordered on the Apple site for €349, the same price as the first generation. Deliveries will be made from February 3. A six-month subscription to Apple Music will be offered with the purchase of a HomePod (2nd generation) if you are not already a subscriber.