The $149 HomePod mini 2 sounds slightly better and offers expanded connectivity, but neither improvement gives existing owners a compelling reason to upgrade.

Six years after the original HomePod mini arrived, Apple's second-generation speaker brings more than a faster processor. New Mac audio capabilities, four-speaker surround sound for Apple TV 4K , and upgraded wireless hardware expand what the compact speaker can do beyond playing music.

The HomePod mini 2 launched on October 30, 2026, without Siri AI, one of its most anticipated features. Until Apple delivers that update, the newer model makes a stronger case for first-time buyers and people expanding their setups than for anyone replacing a perfectly good original.

Specification HomePod mini (2020) HomePod mini 2 (2026)

Launch price $99 $149

Processor Apple S5 Apple S10

Audio hardware Full-range driver, two passive radiators Full-range driver, two passive radiators

Computational audio Real-time tuning Advanced real-time tuning

Microphones Four…