Along with the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro Series, Apple also launches HomePod mini, the toned-down variant of HomePod which was first introduced in 2017. It comes with an all-new compact design, improved and advanced voice assistant, intercom mode, smart home capabilities, with built-in privacy & security.
This smart speaker is powered by Apple S5 chip with advanced software such as computational audio that analyse the unique characteristics of the music and apply complex tuning models to optimise loudness, adjust the dynamic range, and control the movement of the driver and passive radiators in real time. For an improved audio experience, the HomePod Mini is equipped with Apple-engineered full-range driver, powered by a neodymium magnet and a pair of force-cancelling passive radiators for deep bass and crisp high frequencies.
HomePod mini is fully integrated with Siri can identify who is speaking and tailor music and podcasts to their preferences, and respond to personal requests, like accessing messages, reminders, notes, and calendar appointments, or making and answering phone calls. All the information processed on the device locally and no information will be sent to Apple servers. Apple has also said that, all the requests are not associated with the user’s Apple ID, and personal information is not sold to advertisers or other organisations.
One of the key highlights of HomePod Mini is an all-new Intercom feature that offers a quick and easy way for family members to connect with each other at home. One person can send an Intercom message from one HomePod to another in a different room, a specific zone, or multiple rooms throughout the home and their voice will automatically play on the designated HomePod speaker. Intercom works with iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and CarPlay. Other key features are:
- 3.3-inches tall, compact design
- Hey Siri support, Ambient sounds
- Connect multiple HomePod mini speakers work together to stream music or podcasts to multiple rooms
- Connet two HomePads to form a stereo pair
- Works with Apple Music, podcasts, radio stations from iHeartRadio, radio.com, and TuneIn
- Siri Shortcuts created on iPhone and iPad are accessible on HomePod mini
- Find My to locate a misplaced iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or Apple Watch by playing a sound
- Send results from HomePod mini iPhone for easy viewing
- Music alarms, Pick up an incoming call, listen to music on the Mac
- Easily control smart home accessories with simple voice commands
- Hand off the music from iPhone to HomePod, Personalised listening, Instant controls
- Touch surface on top – Play, pause, skip a song, adjust the volume, or talk to Siri
- Apple-designed acoustic waveguide – Directs the flow of sound down and out toward the bottom of the speaker
- Four microphones – Improved voice detection especially when music is playing
The Apple HomePod mini will be available in two colours – White and Space Grey at a great price of just ₹9,900. It will be available to buy via apple.com/in, and Apple Authorised Resellers. Pre-order starts 6th November with availability beginning 16th November 2020.