Apple’s latest offering, the second-generation HomePod, is finally here and ready to be purchased by consumers. The new smart speaker is available in two color options, Midnight and White, and can be picked up at Apple Stores across the United States and select other countries. Those who are interested in getting their hands on the new HomePod can do so by placing an order through the Apple online store or App Store app. Simply choose the “I’ll pick it up” option at checkout, enter your ZIP code, and select the closest Apple Store location. You can then pick a date and a 15-minute window for your pickup.
The new HomePod has undergone some design changes compared to its predecessor. It boasts a refined design with a larger touch surface that is backlit, and its power cable is now removable. On the inside, it features five tweeters instead of seven, four far-field microphones instead of six, and new temperature and humidity sensors.
Powered by Apple’s S7 chip, the new HomePod also comes equipped with Thread support, a U1 Ultra Wideband chip to support music handoff, Wi-Fi 802.11n connectivity, and support for Spatial Audio. Two HomePods can be paired together to form a stereo pair, but it’s worth noting that the new HomePod cannot be stereo paired with the first-generation model.
Starting today, the HomePod is available in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, the UK, the US, and 11 other countries for $299. This latest release from Apple is expected to be a hit among consumers who are looking for a high-quality smart speaker that offers a variety of features and is easy to use.
