HomePod Mini 2 Arrives Oct. 30 Without Siri AI

Apple’s new HomePod Mini 2 smart speaker will run Siri AI, but it won’t have those features at launch on October 30. Apple announced the $149 speaker on Tuesday and confirmed that the AI-powered version of its voice assistant isn’t ready for the initial release, according to The Verge.

What Apple Announced

The HomePod Mini 2 marks the first update to Apple’s compact speaker in nearly six years. It comes in five colors and is available for preorder now through Apple, as Mashable reports.

Inside, you’ll find the S10 chip, the same processor that debuted in the Apple Watch Series 10. Apple claims this chip can handle Siri AI, which offers a more conversational experience. However, the software isn’t quite ready yet.

It’s similar to buying a house that’s pre-wired for a smart-home system but can’t be fully set up yet. The hardware is all set, but you’re still waiting on the software.

The New Sound Glow Feature

The speaker introduces a feature called Sound Glow. This syncs the speaker’s LED lights on top with the album art of the song currently playing. You can enjoy this feature without having to wait for Siri AI.

Why Siri AI Isn’t Ready Yet

According to 9to5Mac, Apple confirmed that the HomePod Mini 2 won’t include Siri AI at launch. However, the sources reviewed for this article didn’t provide a specific date for when the feature will be available. So, check Apple’s product page before making a purchase.

The Bigger Apple Home Push

This speaker is just one part of Apple’s larger announcement. They also introduced:

• Apple TV 4K: The updated box now includes onboard microphones and a better processor. MacRumors reports it will also feature Apple Intelligence (Apple’s term for its AI features) along with Siri AI. CNET notes it now costs three times as much as Roku’s top streamer.
• HomeView: A smart display designed for Siri AI. Engadget reports two versions will launch in November for $299.

All three products highlight Apple’s focus on building its home lineup around Siri AI. The HomePod Mini 2 is the most affordable option, but it arrives without the key feature.

What This Means

If you’re considering buying one, here’s what you should know:

• On day one, you’re getting a $149 speaker with a new chip, fresh colors, and Sound Glow. However, it won’t have the conversational Siri AI that Apple is promoting with its other new products.
• If you want Siri AI now, the speaker isn’t the right choice yet. The same goes if you’re looking for an upgrade just for voice commands.
• If you want a small speaker anyway, the new chip indicates that the hardware is built to support Siri AI features in the future. Whether that matters to you depends on how soon those features roll out.
• If you own an older HomePod Mini, the main reasons to upgrade are the newer hardware and Sound Glow, not smarter conversations.

Community Reaction

At the time of writing, we didn’t have Reddit or YouTube reactions to share, and overall community sentiment appears to be mixed. Early discussions often revolve around a common question: why release a speaker designed for Siri AI before the feature is ready?

What To Watch

• October 30: The HomePod Mini 2 will start shipping. Early reviews should give insights into how the speaker performs without Siri AI.
• November: The $299 HomeView smart display will launch in two versions.
• Siri AI timing: Keep an eye out for Apple to announce when those features will reach the HomePod Mini 2. That date will determine if the speaker feels like a complete product or just a placeholder.
• Apple TV 4K rollout: The Apple Intelligence features coming to the set-top box will be the first real test of Siri AI in the living room.

For more details on the launch, check out Mashable’s announcement coverage.