- Apple has released a more affordable, smaller version of its flagship smart speaker known as the HomePod Mini.
- The HomePod Mini brings all of the features from its larger predecessor into a smaller frame that looks a lot like the latest Amazon Echo for just $99.00.
- The speaker was released to the public on November 16, and you can order it now from Apple, Best Buy, and other retailers.
- You can read our full HomePod Mini review here.
Not one to go down without a fight, Apple has revealed its second smart speaker to date in order to draw you away from the Echoes and Nest speakers of the world: HomePod Mini. Naturally, this HomePod is much smaller and more affordable than Apple's first HomePod speaker.
That said, it doesn't appear to lose any of the features found within the previous version, coming with full Siri digital assistant integration, smart home control, Find My, and voice-based web search to name a few.
The speaker also brings with it some new features, however, namely a new intercom feature that allows users to speak to one another through multiple HomePod units as well from a HomePod to an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, or CarPlay device. Finally, the speaker sports an admittedly gorgeous, colorful touch display up top for physical playback and Siri controls.
Apple HomePod Mini release date and price
Apple made the HomePod Mini available for preorder on November 6, with a full release following 10 days later on November 16. Again, the speaker costs $99.00, making it awfully competitive with the leading smart speakers out there.
For instance, the latest Amazon Echo (4th Gen) goes for the exact same price: $99.99 – and Apple's speaker just so happens to look a whole lot like it. Meanwhile, the Google Nest Audio announced this year also asks for $99.99. No longer is Apple HomePod limited by its previously unapproachable price.
How to buy Apple HomePod Mini
Preorders for Apple HomePod Mini began on November 6 on Apple's retail website, and the device is now available for shipment. With that said, current orders are not estimated to arrive until December 9 at the earliest.
The HomePod Mini is also available through other retailers, including Best Buy.
For detailed impressions on the HomePod Mini, be sure to read our full HomePod Mini review here.
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