The launch of Apple's HomePod mini speaker will allow it to enter a rapidly expanding market segment, such as small portable speakers that can be placed in small rooms.
Without a doubt, the HomePod mini has a huge number of benefits, many based on its integration with the Apple ecosystem, leveraging the technologies found in the Mac, iPhone, iPad (like Siri) and the advanced audio lab that Apple has. developed from the purchase of Beats.
The best of the HomePod mini
- HomePod mini offers a 360º experience that allows you to place it almost anywhere.
- Three microphones to call Siri and a fourth microphone inwards to isolate the sound.
- Siri integration
- Transfer music from HomePod mini to iPhone just by touching them.
- Intercom to communicate with other people in the house.
- Designed with privacy and security in mind.
- Ambient sounds.
- Find the integration to find a lost iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or Apple Watch
- Customizable alarms with music.
It's certainly an impressive piece of technology, especially for its price. And HomePod mini sells for € 99 (VAT included)
The worst of the HomePod mini
Nobody doubts that Apple will sell many thousands of HomePod minis. At that price it offers many advantages, especially for those who already own two or more Apple products.
But its big drawback is that it doesn't have a battery. The HomePod mini must always be connected to power to function.
This need makes it useless for many users who want to be able to move carrying a speaker that meets their needs in any situation, whether relaxing in the bedroom, putting a soundtrack to a quiet day at the pool or sharing music with friends.
If you don't have an outlet nearby, you can't use HomePod mini.
What if I just want to listen to music?
Another common objection to the HomePod mini is that while everything it offers for under $ 100 is impressive, many users will barely utilize the more advanced features.
Not everyone uses Siri (or you might use it and it never responds to what you need) or has a house big enough to need a 21st century intercom, or you want to transfer music from iPhone to speaker or vice versa.
Many users just want to listen to their music without complications, and be able to take it from one room to another as they move: bedroom, bathroom, kitchen… maybe even in the car!
For the entire market there is still a huge offer of wireless Bluetooth speakers in all price ranges.
You can find references on bluetooth speakers or smart speakers (if that's what you're looking for) in many places. For example, in Mejorcomparativa.com, they recapitulated the models that, in their opinion, in 2020 offer the best balance between quality, performance and price.
In its analysis you will find the pros, cons and advice, in case it helps you find your ideal speaker.
Conclusion
The HomePod mini is a technological marvel that will delight thousands of users around the world, especially those who already have significant investments in the Apple ecosystem, because the level of integration of communication technologies, home automation and sound control, along with an affordable price, they put it on the radar of many potential buyers.
But if you don't need to be upgraded, or prefer to use voice assistants from other companies like Amazon or Google, there are still many chances of having a great speaker for a similar or lower price than Apple's.
So, before you start buying the latest one, first think about what you need and what use you will make of it. This way you can get the most out of every euro you spend.
Are you planning to buy (or have you purchased) the HomePod mini or do you use other types of speakers?
