Apple's HomePod mini 2 is here with Siri AI, new colors and improved sound

Alongside the new Apple HomeView, upgraded Apple TV 4K, and Apple Home Collection, the company also unveiled the HomePod mini 2. The updated smart speaker brings Siri AI, a new Sound Glow feature, support for pairing up to 4 speakers, and new color options.

The HomePod mini 2 is powered by the company’s S10 chip, which enables its new Siri AI features. Apple says that Siri AI will require the speaker to be paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad.

Siri AI will be able to recognize up to six users based on their voice and offer personalized messages. However, these features won’t be available at launch and will arrive through a future software update.

It also gets a new Sound Glow feature that uses the top of the HomePod mini as a digital canvas to glow and animate when playing music. The feature uses colors from the song's album art for a unique experience.

You can also pair up to 4 HomePod mini speakers to form a 4-speaker surround setup with the new Apple TV 4K. It can also be used as a home hub and control smart home devices.

The HomePod mini 2 is available for pre-order via the Apple Store in the US and 23 regions. It will be offered in blue, green, pink, midnight, and white color options. The smart speaker will go on sale starting October 30.

Apple’s latest HomePod mini 2 is priced at $149 in the US.