I’ve been exploring both the HomePod and HomePod Mini recently, and I thought I’d share some useful information for anyone who’s considering getting one, or maybe expanding their smart home setup.
1. Release Dates
HomePod (1st Gen) was first released back in 2018.
It was followed by the HomePod Mini in 2020, which became super popular due to its size and price.
Apple later introduced the HomePod (2nd Gen) in 2023, refining sound quality and adding some helpful smart home features.
2. Tech Specs (Simplified)
HomePod (2nd Gen): Features a high-excursion woofer, five tweeters, Spatial Audio support, temperature & humidity sensors.
HomePod Mini: Compact size, full-range driver with dual passive radiators, and also has built-in temperature & humidity sensors.
Both support AirPlay 2, and work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem.
3. Available Colours
HomePod 2nd Gen: Midnight (very deep blue/black), White.
HomePod Mini: White, Space Grey, Blue, Yellow, and Orange (depending on region availability).
4. Using Multiple HomePods Around the House
Having more than one feels surprisingly useful. You can:
Play music in every room or just one room.
Create a stereo pair in the living room for a wider soundstage.
Use Intercom to communicate between rooms.
It makes the home feel more connected, especially if you listen to music or podcasts regularly.
5. Pairing With iPhone & Apple Devices
Setup is extremely easy:
Just plug it in → Hold your iPhone nearby → Tap Set Up.
All your Apple Music, messages, calendars, and HomeKit devices sync automatically.
6. Using Siri
You can ask Siri to:
Play music by mood or genre
Control lights & appliances
Check the weather, traffic, reminders and more
While it’s not perfect, Siri is very handy when your hands are full (especially in the kitchen!).
7. Setting Up Home Automations
Through the Home app, you can automate things like:
Lights turning on when you arrive home
Music playing at certain times
Temperature adjustments based on time of day
It’s like giving your home a routine of its own.
8. Recognising Different Voices
HomePod can recognise multiple voices in the same house.
This means each person can:
Access their own music profile
Send and receive their own messages
Get personalised calendar reminders
Helpful when everyone has different schedules.
9. Intercom Feature
You can say:
“Hey Siri, intercom ‘Dinner is ready!’”
It’ll announce across every HomePod in the house, or just to specific rooms. Great for avoiding the classic shouting up the stairs moment.
—
10. HomePod vs HomePod Mini (Quick Comparison)
Features HomePod (2nd Gen) HomePod Mini
Sound Quality: Rich, deep, room-filling Clear, good for size Ideal Room Size: Medium to Large Small to Medium Price: Higher More affordable Best Use: Music lovers, TV audio Bedroom, office, kitchen speaker
11. Mono vs Stereo Pair
Mono: Single speaker in one room. Simple setup.
Stereo: Two of the same model paired together for left and right channels.
If you airplay music often or even use it as additional speakers for your television, the stereo mode is a noticeable upgrade.
12. Compatible TV Brands
HomePod works best when paired with:
To use HomePod as your main TV speaker, Apple TV is recommended, for seamless connection. Ultimately the choice if yours.
13. Privacy
Apple processes audio on device whenever possible, and voice recordings are not automatically saving unless you choose to share to improve Siri. There are also clear settings to review or delete recordings. Believe it or not, but this applies to other bigger brands, such as Google, Microsoft and so on.
14. Tips & Tricks
Say: “Hey Siri, play something chill” great for background vibes.
Use Intercom from your iPhone when away from home.
Place HomePod on an open surface, sound dispersion is noticeably better.
For HomePod Mini owners, enable Sound Check to keep volume level consistent.
Overall, both the HomePod and HomePod Mini make daily life just a little more seamless, especially if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem. The Mini is great for affordability and flexibility, while the full-size HomePod really shines when it comes to pure sound quality and home theater setups.
Cool TechSmart Home
