HomePod mini 2: Rumors and Expected Features
Apple’s HomePod mini has remained largely unchanged since its launch in 2020, leading to growing speculation about a second-generation model. While Apple has not officially announced a successor, several reports and industry rumors provide insight into what the next version could offer.
Background
Apple introduced the HomePod mini in October 2020 during the iPhone 12 launch event. Shortly afterward, Apple discontinued the original full-size HomePod, making the smaller speaker the company’s primary smart home audio device until the larger HomePod returned in 2023.
According to reports from Mark Gurman, Apple has been working on a second-generation HomePod mini since at least 2022. However, there are still questions about how much Apple can improve the device without significantly increasing its price.
Possible Chip Upgrades
One of the biggest expected improvements for the next HomePod mini is a more powerful processor.
The current model uses Apple’s S5 chip, originally introduced in the:
-
Apple Watch Series 5
-
First-generation Apple Watch SE
A future model could feature:
-
S7 chip
-
S8 chip
-
S9 chip
-
S10 chip
Expected Benefits
A newer chip could provide:
-
Faster Siri responses
-
Improved local processing
-
Better sound optimization
-
Enhanced microphone performance
-
Lower-latency Handoff support
-
Improved energy efficiency
The S9 and rumored S10 chips are especially significant because they are based on Apple’s A15 architecture, offering major performance gains over the older S5 processor.
Improved Connectivity
The next-generation HomePod mini may also gain:
-
Wi-Fi 6E support
-
Faster wireless communication
-
Better smart home responsiveness
-
Improved device pairing stability
These upgrades would help future-proof the speaker for Apple’s expanding smart home ecosystem.
New Color Options
Apple is also expected to refresh the speaker’s color lineup.
The current HomePod mini colors include:
-
Space Gray
-
Blue
-
Yellow
-
White
-
Orange
Since Apple replaced “Space Gray” with “Midnight” on the newer full-size HomePod, many expect a similar color update for the next HomePod mini.
Additional new colors may also be introduced to better match Apple’s modern hardware lineup.
Potential Audio Improvements
Although rumors remain limited, Apple could improve:
-
Speaker quality
-
Bass performance
-
Voice recognition
-
Siri microphone clarity
However, analysts suggest Apple may avoid major hardware redesigns in order to maintain the affordable price point of the HomePod mini.
Possible Release Timeline
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously stated that mass shipments of the second-generation HomePod mini could begin in the second half of 2024.
However, Apple may delay the product further depending on its broader smart home strategy.
Future Smart Home Plans
Apple is reportedly developing a more advanced HomePod featuring a built-in 7-inch display.
This future device could combine:
-
Smart speaker functionality
-
Home control features
-
Video communication
-
Smart display capabilities
Because of this larger smart home push, Apple could choose to release the next HomePod mini alongside a future-generation full-size HomePod rather than launching it independently.
Final Thoughts
While details remain uncertain, the second-generation HomePod mini is expected to focus on performance, connectivity, and smart home enhancements rather than a complete redesign. A newer chip, updated wireless standards, and refreshed colors appear to be the most likely upgrades, while Apple’s broader smart home ambitions may shape when the device officially launches.