Apple introduced a new HomePod 2023 that promises hi-fi sound and doubles as a Matter hub for smart home devices. With integrated temperature and humidity sensors, noise detection, and many audio features, Apple Homepod 2 offers a wide range of functions.
The 2nd generation Apple HomePod 2 looks confusingly similar to the older HomePod, but Apple has fundamentally revised the technology. Apple installs a 100-millimeter woofer, five horn-loaded tweeters, and four microphones that make it possible to automatically adjust the sound to the respective room.
The new Apple smart speaker supports 3D audio for virtual surround sound and includes support for Dolby Atmos. It also allows two HomePods to be paired as a stereo pair. The speaker can be operated using touch-sensitive buttons on the top or through voice control using Siri.
With the help of Apple AirPlay 2, HomePods 2023 can also be used for multi-room audio setups. In addition to Wi-Fi 4 and Bluetooth 5.0, the Apple HomePod 2 also offers an ultra-wideband chip that allows sound to be streamed to the speaker by holding an iPhone nearby.
The UWB chip also allows the HomePod to tell the user where their iPhone or a specific AirTag is on request. The speaker also acts as a smart home hub for devices that support the new Matter standard, allowing them to be connected to the internet and controlled via Apple’s Home app. Integration of temperature and humidity sensors enables, for instance, automation of a smart radiator based on the current temperature of the room.
Apple Homepod 2 price and release date
The 2nd generation Apple HomePod is available to pre-order now from the Bhphotovideo.com and Adorama.com online stores for $299 in the midnight and white colors, with deliveries starting on February 3.
Alongside this smart speaker, Apple also introduced the brand-new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro 2023. The 120 Hz fast, 1,600 nits bright mini LED display is now optionally combined with an Apple M2 Pro or an M2 Max, with Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E.
