Apple announces second generation homepod with temperature and humidity sensors
Apple has launched the HomePod 2nd Gen in India.
The new HomePod 2nd Gen is powered by new S7 chip.
The new HomePod is Apple’s top smart speaker in market
Apple has announced a new $299 HomePod smart speaker with improved sound, intelligence, and smart features. The new HomePod is the successor to the original HomePod, which was released in 2018. HomePod pre-orders have already begun, with in-store availability and shipping available in the United States and other countries.
In many ways, Apple’s second generation HomePod wireless speaker is similar to the first HomePod, but one of its distinguishing features is Spatial Audio support for Apple Music. The original Apple HomePod was one of the best wireless speakers on the market, but it was discontinued in March 2021 in favour of the smaller and less expensive Apple HomePod Mini.
Apple’s new HomePod comes in two colours: white and black, dubbed ‘Midnight’ by the company. It is wrapped in a 100% recycled mesh fabric and includes Siri voice control and Apple’s own Spatial Audio technology for an immersive sound experience.
The HomePod is powered by a S7 chip. “The S7 chip is combined with software and system-sensing technology to offer even more advanced computational audio that maximizes the full potential of its acoustic system for a groundbreaking listening experience,” according to the company.
It has a 20mm driver, a built-in EQ mic, and a set of five tweeters. To broadcast messages, two speakers can be used as an in-home intercom system.
Apple HomePod can now measure indoor environments with the new temperature and humidity sensor, allowing users to automate actions such as closing blinds or turning on a fan as needed. It also includes smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that send notifications to iPhone users when they are away.
The second generation HomePod has a 4-inch woofer paired with five tweeters, as opposed to the original’s seven. It now has four microphones instead of seven. However, Apple claims that this will have no effect on sound quality.
Another new smart feature is the ability to detect where the HomePod is in a room. This enables the speaker to change the sound profile based on whether it is placed against a wall or on a table.
According to Apple, thanks to a software update coming later this spring, the new HomePod will be able to use its built-in microphones to listen for smoke or carbon monoxide alarms and notify users via sending notifications to iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
The second generation HomePod is now available to buy in Canada, Australia, China, Germany, France, Japan, the United Kingdom, and 11 other countries and regions. The first deliveries will take place on February 3, 2023.
