Apple has announced the availability of its latest HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod mini in Malaysia starting May 10.
These new devices, known for their stunning audio quality and smart features, are designed to work seamlessly together, bringing advanced computational audio for an exceptional listening experience.
The HomePod offers a breakthrough in sound quality with its deep bass and high frequencies, supported by Spatial Audio. It features a custom-engineered woofer, a built-in bass-EQ mic, and a beamforming tweeter array, all powered by the S7 chip, which enhances audio output through sophisticated computational audio technology.
The HomePod’s room sensing technology further fine-tunes the audio by adapting its output based on its placement within a room.
Meanwhile, the HomePod mini packs a big sound into a smaller, beautifully crafted design. It utilizes an Apple-designed acoustic waveguide, a three-microphone array, and an inward-facing microphone that enhances voice detection, ensuring Siri commands are clearly heard even when music is playing.
The compact speaker also features the Apple S5 chip, which dynamically adjusts music playback for optimal sound quality.
Both devices integrate seamlessly with Apple Music, allowing users to access a vast library of over 100 million songs. They also support multiroom audio and can create an immersive home theatre experience when connected to Apple TV 4K. With Siri integrated, users can control music, manage smart home tasks, and even set up home automations using voice commands.
In terms of design, the new HomePod models come in various colors, with the HomePod available in white and midnight, and the HomePod mini available in vibrant hues like orange, yellow, and blue, in addition to space grey and white. Both models are made with environmentally friendly materials, including 100 percent recycled mesh fabric and rare earth elements.
For smart home enthusiasts, the HomePod and HomePod mini serve as central hubs to manage and control smart home accessories, including those compatible with the Matter standard, ensuring interoperability across different ecosystems while maintaining robust security.
Apple is committed to privacy and environmental responsibility. The HomePod series not only prioritizes customer privacy with encrypted smart home communication and non-storage of Siri audio requests but also includes components that are energy efficient and made from recycled materials.
The HomePod (2nd generation) is priced at RM1,549, while the HomePod mini is available for RM529. Both can be purchased online at apple.com/my/store, via the Apple Store app, and at physical retail locations from May 10. The devices are compatible with a range of Apple products, with the latest versions of iOS and iPadOS recommended for the best experience. New subscribers to Apple Music can also enjoy a six-month free trial with their purchase of any HomePod model.