HomePod Mini 2 brings S10 chip and Wi-Fi 6E to $149 speaker; AI Siri features wait for update

Apple introduced the HomePod Mini 2 with preorders opening immediately and shipping scheduled for October 30. As Threat Times reported on October 13, the $149 speaker introduces an upgraded S10 processor, but Siri AI features depend on a forthcoming software update and a paired iPhone.

The second-generation device replaces the original HomePod mini’s S5 chip with the modern S10. This hardware change enables future support for Siri AI, which offers broad world knowledge and natural conversation capabilities. However, Apple states that these AI features will not be available when the device ships in late October.

Technical Specifications and Connectivity

The HomePod Mini 2 includes significant upgrades to its wireless connectivity standards. It supports Wi-Fi 6E, an improvement over the Wi-Fi 4 found in the previous model, and adds Bluetooth 6 support, up from Bluetooth 5. These changes allow the speaker to function as the default audio output for Macs that support Wi-Fi 6E or later standards, a feature not available on the original hardware.

Physical design remains largely consistent with the predecessor, though the weight is listed as 3 percent lower. The new model introduces pink and green color options, while the blue shade has been adjusted. Black and white remain available. The top of the speaker features Sound Glow, which pulses and glows in sync with music playback, matching album art colors or user-selected soundscapes like rain.

Ecosystem Integration and Limitations

Users can configure four HomePod Mini 2 speakers for surround sound with the new Apple TV 4K, placing them in front and rear pairs. Despite the hardware upgrades, the device includes only three microphones for Siri, down from four in the original model. Apple has not explicitly confirmed whether the S10 chip’s computational audio capabilities improve sound quality beyond the previous generation, leaving that determination to independent reviews.

The price increase is notable for the product line. The previous model was initially $99 and later $129. The new HomePod Mini 2 is priced at $149 in the United States. According to 9to5Mac, the original HomePod mini will not support Siri AI, leaving it stuck on the old Siri.

What should you do?

Security and technology professionals should monitor Apple’s software update channels for the release of Siri AI features. Since the AI capabilities require a paired Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, organizations deploying these speakers should ensure compatible mobile devices are available. Users interested in the default Mac speaker functionality should verify their Macs support Wi-Fi 6E before purchasing.

What to do and how to stay safe: Apple

• Verify that your Mac supports Wi-Fi 6E if you plan to use the HomePod Mini 2 as a default audio output device.
• Ensure you have an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad to access personal context features when Siri AI support arrives.
• Wait for Apple’s future software update to enable Siri AI capabilities, as they are not active at launch.
• Check your home network compatibility with Wi-Fi 6E to utilize the speaker’s upgraded connectivity features.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

When will Siri AI features be available on the HomePod Mini 2?

Siri AI support will arrive in a future software update, expected next month after the October 30 shipping date.

Does the original HomePod mini support Siri AI?

No, 9to5Mac reports that the original HomePod mini will not support Siri AI and will remain on the older Siri version.

What is the price of the HomePod Mini 2?

The HomePod Mini 2 is priced at $149 in the United States, up from the previous model’s initial $99 price.