Apple’s second-generation HomePod
Apple
Apple introduced the second era of its HomePod on Wednesday. It prices $299.
The second-generation HomePod follows the primary era, which Apple discontinued in 2021 in favor of the smaller and extra reasonably priced HomePod mini. The authentic HomePod launched at $349 and by no means gained the traction of cheaper Amazon Echo or Google Nest merchandise. Apple reduce the worth in 2019 to $299.
The newest HomePod permits customers to create good dwelling automations utilizing Siri, examine the temperature and humidity of their houses and get alerts when a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm is detected, Apple stated. The HomePod ought to sound higher because of help for spatial audio, which makes it appear to be music is coming from round you.
It additionally helps the brand new Matter customary, which implies it should work with a brand new era of good dwelling devices, like mild bulbs, doorbells and cameras, with out customers having to fret if the gadget will help an Amazon, Google or Apple-based good dwelling hub.
The new HomePod is accessible to order on-line and within the Apple Store, in black or white, beginning Wednesday. It’ll arrive in shops on Feb. 3.