The Unexpected Comeback of the HomePod: What to Expect
Written on
The Surprising Return of Apple’s HomePod
Just when we thought we had a few more months of quiet, Apple pulls a fast one on us again. Tim Cook, what are you thinking? Like many tech reviewers not part of the secretive "Embargo Club," I was convinced that we wouldn't see any new Macs until later in the year.
The revelation was quite shocking! Apple has unveiled the new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, along with new MacBook Pros and a revamped Mac mini. All of this in January? Talk about catching us off guard!
But that wasn’t all. Apple had another surprise up its sleeve — the reintroduction of the HomePod. Yes, you read that right! This is the same HomePod that was deemed too pricey and riddled with Siri issues, ultimately leading to its demise. What on earth is going on?
The Original HomePod: A Brief History
The first HomePod was unveiled in June 2017, carrying a hefty price tag of £319 in the UK and $349 in the US, making it one of the priciest home assistants available. Apple touted it as the "ultimate music authority," a phrase that left many scratching their heads. However, the device aimed to integrate exceptional sound quality with intelligent assistance, setting itself apart from competitors like Sonos and Amazon.
Initial reviews praised the HomePod for its audio performance, with publications like The Verge noting its superior sound quality. However, two significant hurdles hindered its success: its high price and Siri's underwhelming performance compared to rivals like Alexa.
Ultimately, the HomePod struggled in the market, leading to its discontinuation in March 2021. Despite this, it developed a cult following, with used models becoming increasingly sought after last year.
This video showcases the HomePod's unique features and design, demonstrating its potential to redefine the smart speaker landscape.
The 2023 HomePod: What’s New?
Fast forward to today, and Apple has reintroduced the HomePod, claiming it now boasts “breakthrough sound and intelligence.” At first glance, it resembles its predecessor, but Apple has made subtle adjustments, including a lighter build, a slightly shorter profile, and a revamped touch surface.
The new HomePod retains its classic aesthetic that many appreciated, now available in white and a new midnight color, complete with a matching woven power cable.
In terms of sound, it continues to utilize room-sensing technology for real-time audio tuning, powered by a new S7 chip. Although the number of tweeters has decreased, the HomePod still features a high-excursion woofer for deep bass. New sensors have also been added, including temperature and humidity sensors, enhancing its smart capabilities.
The HomePod now integrates seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem, allowing users to transfer audio from their iPhones and recognize up to six different voices. Its price point is slightly more accessible at £299 in the UK and $299 in the US.
Why the HomePod is Back
According to Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, the success of the HomePod mini sparked renewed interest in a larger, more powerful version. While the HomePod mini has performed well due to its lower price, the leap to the new HomePod’s price tag remains a significant hurdle.
Will it find its place in homes, or will it become another niche product in Apple’s lineup? Only time will tell.
My Plans with the New HomePod
As a current owner of a HomePod mini, I admit it has been gathering dust since my move to a new studio. The lack of excitement in sound and Siri's limitations have made it less appealing. However, I’m eager to try the new HomePod, which I’ve ordered in midnight color.
I plan to replace our existing Amazon Echo devices with HomePods. The main unit will go in the kitchen, and I’ll gradually add HomePod minis elsewhere in the house. This transition may prove challenging, especially since my girlfriend is accustomed to Alexa. Adjusting to Siri will require some effort, but I’m excited to see how it performs.
Stay tuned for updates on this fascinating journey into the world of Apple’s smart speakers!
Before You Go
If you found this article insightful, consider subscribing to my newsletter for more tips and insights on becoming a successful online creator!