Apple has prepared for release a new HomePod smart speaker in a form factor similar to the original HomePod version released in 2018.
The second-generation HomePod has one 4-inch woofer, five tweeters (compared to seven in the original model), and five microphones (compared to seven). Apple says the speaker can detect how it’s positioned in the room, adjusting the sound accordingly. Two such speakers can be combined into a stereo pair or used as speakers for Apple TV 4K.
Among the innovations, support for the Matter smart home standard can be highlighted, which allows the speaker to control compatible accessories. The device contains a modernized S7 chip, first presented in the Apple Watch Series 7. In addition, the novelty received built-in temperature and humidity sensors that can be used as triggers for smart home automation. There’s also support for streaming music using Apple’s ultra-wideband technology, and the speaker’s voice assistant Siri can recognize up to six different voices and provide personalized responses.
A software update coming this spring will allow the new HomePod to use its built-in microphones to listen for smoke or carbon monoxide alarms. If danger is detected, the column will notify the user.
The second-generation Apple HomePod smart column is now available for pre-order at a price of $299. It will go on sale from February 3 and will be sold together with the HomePod Mini model introduced in 2020.
Source: Apple
