As a digital technology expert and audio enthusiast, I‘ve been closely following the evolution of smart speakers, particularly Apple‘s HomePod lineup. With the recent release of the HomePod 2nd generation, it‘s the perfect time to take a deep dive into how it compares to the original model. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll examine the key differences and improvements between the two generations, from audio quality to smart home features, to help you decide which one is right for you.
HomePod History and Market Position
Apple first entered the smart speaker market in February 2018 with the launch of the original HomePod. Positioned as a premium audio device with Siri voice control, the HomePod aimed to compete with established players like Amazon Echo and Google Home.
Despite its impressive sound quality, the HomePod struggled to gain market share due to its high $349 price tag and limited support for third-party services. In Q1 2018, the HomePod accounted for just 4.1% of the smart speaker market, compared to Amazon‘s 43.6% share and Google‘s 26.5%, according to Strategy Analytics (source).
Facing sluggish sales, Apple discontinued the original HomePod in March 2021, focusing instead on the more affordable $99 HomePod mini launched in November 2020. However, in January 2023, Apple surprised many by announcing the HomePod 2nd generation, a refined version of its full-size smart speaker.
Audio Quality Comparison
The HomePod has always prioritized audio fidelity, and the 2nd generation model takes this even further. Let‘s explore the key audio enhancements:
Speaker Design and Components
Both generations feature a rounded cylindrical design with a high-excursion woofer and an array of tweeters for directional sound. However, the HomePod 2 has been re-engineered with some notable changes:
| Component | HomePod 1st Gen | HomePod 2nd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Tweeters | 7 horn-loaded tweeters | 5 beamforming tweeters |
| Woofer | 4-inch high-excursion woofer | 4-inch high-excursion woofer (20mm diaphragm) |
| Amplifiers | 7 tweeters + 1 woofer amp | 5 tweeters + 1 woofer amp |
| Mics | 6 microphones | 4 microphones |
Despite having two fewer tweeters and microphones, Apple claims the HomePod 2‘s optimized placement and advanced beamforming algorithms actually result in improved acoustic performance.
The 2nd gen model‘s woofer also features a brand-new 20mm diaphragm and more advanced driver, enabling it to achieve an impressive 20Hz -20kHz frequency response (source).
Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos
A major addition to the HomePod 2 is support for spatial audio with Dolby Atmos. This creates an immersive, multi-dimensional soundstage for compatible songs on Apple Music and Dolby Atmos movies/shows. Early reviews suggest the effect is convincing, with Engadget noting "Atmos tracks sounded more open and expansive" (source).
The original HomePod, lacking spatial audio, cannot match this more engaging audio presentation.
Computational Audio
Both HomePods leverage computational audio to intelligently adapt sound to your room. Using built-in mics, they analyze the acoustic characteristics of the space and dynamically tune the output for optimal performance.
However, the HomePod 2‘s processing is more advanced thanks to the powerful S7 chip (also found in the Apple Watch Series 7). It runs complex tuning models more quickly, adjusting the speaker‘s response over 100x per second (source).
Combined with improved room sensing (more on that later), this allows the HomePod 2 to achieve an even wider, more natural soundstage while minimizing distortion at high volumes. It‘s a noticeable step up from the already impressive 1st gen‘s audio chops.
Stereo Pairing
Like the original, two HomePod 2‘s can be paired in a stereo configuration for an even more immersive experience. Placed correctly, this can create a stunningly wide and deep soundstage.
Notably, you can also create a stereo pair with one HomePod 2 and one HomePod mini. This wasn‘t possible with the 1st gen model, adding nice flexibility for those with multiple HomePod models.
Smart Home Features
Beyond audio enhancements, the HomePod 2 brings some significant smart home upgrades to better compete with Amazon and Google‘s offerings:
Sound Recognition
Using its array of microphones, the HomePod 2 can now listen for smoke or carbon monoxide alarms and notify your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch if it detects a sound. This is a valuable safety feature that elevates the HomePod beyond just another music speaker.
Surprisingly, this capability wasn‘t available on the 1st gen model, putting it at a disadvantage compared to the latest Echo and Nest speakers. It‘s great to see Apple close this gap with the HomePod 2.
Temperature and Humidity Sensing
In another first for HomePod, the 2nd gen model includes a temperature and humidity sensor. This enables a variety of useful automation, like turning on a fan connected to a smart plug when a room hits a certain temp, or activating a humidifier if the humidity drops too low.
This type of environmental sensing has been available on some Echo and Nest speakers for a while. But the HomePod 2 takes it a step further by feeding this data into the Home app, so you can see a log of temp/humidity changes over time. It‘s a thoughtful touch that makes the sensor more valuable.
Thread and Matter Support
The HomePod 2 adds support for Thread, a low-power mesh networking protocol designed for smart home devices. As a Thread border router, the HomePod can connect directly to Thread-enabled accessories like motion sensors, door locks and light bulbs for more efficient and responsive automations (source).
Even more exciting is the inclusion of Matter support. Matter is a new industry-unifying smart home standard that aims to simplify interoperability between devices from different brands. With Matter integration, the HomePod 2 can act as a central hub to control Matter-certified accessories from Google, Amazon, Samsung and dozens of other brands.
This is a huge deal. By embracing Matter, Apple is signaling a more open, collaborative approach to the smart home. The HomePod 2 is now better positioned to be a central controller for a wider variety of accessories, regardless of manufacturer.
In contrast, the original HomePod lacked Thread/Matter support, limiting its ability to integrate with non-Apple smart home devices. This gives the 2nd gen model a major leg up as a future-proof home hub.
Privacy and Security
As with all Apple products, the HomePod 2 places a strong emphasis on protecting user privacy and security. Some key highlights:
- All Siri requests are encrypted and sent anonymously to Apple servers without being tied to your Apple ID (source)
- The HomePod‘s mic can be quickly disabled via a voice command or the Home app for added peace of mind
- HomeKit Secure Video ensures video from compatible security cameras is end-to-end encrypted before being analyzed or stored in iCloud
- The U1 chip enables visual, audible and haptic effects when transferring sound between HomePod and a U1-equipped iPhone for intuitive handoff (source)
While not new to the 2nd gen model, these privacy-centric features remain a key selling point of the HomePod line compared to some less transparent competitors.
Pricing and Value
When comparing the HomePod 2 vs 1, pricing is a crucial factor:
| Model | Launch Price | Current Price |
|---|---|---|
| HomePod 1st Gen | $349 | Discontinued |
| HomePod 2nd Gen | $299 | $299 |
The HomePod 2‘s $299 introductory price is a full $50 less than the original model‘s cost in 2018. While still firmly in the premium tier, this positions it as a more palatable alternative to high-end smart speakers like the $199 Amazon Echo Studio and $299 Google Home Max.
Plus, the additional sensors and improved audio arguably make the HomePod 2 a better value than its predecessor was at launch. You‘re getting more features for less money, a welcome change from the 1st gen‘s laser focus on sound quality above all else.
Of course, $299 is still a lot to pay for a smart speaker when capable options like the Sonos One and Amazon Echo 4th gen can be had for under $200. But for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the HomePod 2‘s seamless integration with iOS/macOS devices and Siri voice control help justify the premium.
Conclusion
After an extended hiatus, Apple has re-entered the high-end smart speaker race with the HomePod 2nd generation. More than just a minor refresh, it brings meaningful upgrades like immersive spatial audio, handy new sensors and futureproof Thread/Matter support. All while lowering the price of entry compared to the original.
No, it‘s not a revolutionary leap that will convert hardcore Alexa/Google Assistant users. But it doesn‘t have to be. By focusing on core audio quality, expanding its features and embracing industry standards, Apple has crafted a smart speaker that better complements its ecosystem.
Existing HomePod 1 owners may not feel compelled to upgrade unless they want the very latest in smart home integration. The 1st gen model remains a stellar-sounding speaker that has aged gracefully.
But for those new to HomePod or deeply embedded in Apple‘s walled garden, the 2nd generation‘s beefed-up abilities make a compelling case. It doubles down on the original‘s hi-fi pedigree while adding some overdue creature comforts to better compete with the Echos and Nests of the world.
Most importantly, it shows Apple is still committed to the HomePod as an integral part of its vision for the connected home. With rumors swirling of an upcoming HomePod model with a display, Thread/Matter support lays the groundwork for exciting expansions to come.
Time will tell if it‘s enough to significantly move the needle on HomePod‘s market share. But one thing is clear: the HomePod 2 is a more well-rounded, wallet-friendly and future-proofed speaker than its trailblazing predecessor. And that‘s a win for Apple fans eager to dive deeper into the smart home space on their own terms.
