Apple has confirmed that the original HomePod has been discontinued.
The company will now focus exclusively on the HomePod mini, which is disappointing news for fans of high-fidelity audio who wanted a premium smart speaker.
Apple struggled to sell the original HomePod because of its high price tag, especially considering that rivals like Amazon and Google offered similar-sounding speakers for a fraction of the cost.
The HomePod originally launched at $350 in the United States, but the price was revised to $299 after lackluster sales. The HomePod mini, released in 2020, is priced at just $99.
The good news for fans of HomePod is that all of the features from the original device are available on the HomePod mini, like Siri integration, HomeKit capabilities, and Apple Music.
Speaking of the news, Apple said: “HomePod mini has been a hit since its debut last fall, offering customers amazing sound, an intelligent assistant, and smart home control all for just $99. We are focusing our efforts on HomePod mini.
“We are discontinuing the original HomePod, it will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores, and Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates and service and support through Apple Care.”
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