Apple HomePod mini refreshed with S10 chip, new features for $149

Apple refreshed its HomePod mini smart speaker on Tuesday, introducing a new S10 chip for improved audio performance and enhanced smart home control capabilities. The updated device, priced at $149, is $50 more expensive than the original version launched in 2020.

The new HomePod mini will allow users to control smart home devices through voice commands and can detect sounds like smoke alarms, sending notifications to users' phones. Apple stated that a future update will bring Siri AI integration, enabling multi-turn conversations with the assistant. The company also highlighted improved integration with other Apple devices, such as forming a four-speaker home entertainment system with the Apple TV 4K or serving as the default speaker for Mac video calls and music playback.

A new visual feature called "Sound Glow" will transform the top of the speaker into a visual canvas that glows and pulses in sync with music, using the color scheme of the album art. Users can also select soundscapes to animate the display. The new HomePod mini will be available in pink, green, blue, white, and midnight colorways, with pre-orders starting October 13, 2026, and availability beginning October 30.