Apple HomePod 2nd Generation

Apple HomePod 2nd Generation(MQJ83LL/A)

Apple HomePod 2nd Generation is priced at Kes 40,500  here at Novelty Tech Solution in Nairobi, Kenya

1. Core Identification & Release Details

• Marketing Name: HomePod (2nd Generation)

• Model Number: A3086 (on the device), typically sold as MQJ83LL/A (for the Midnight model) and other SKUs for color variants.

• Release Date: Announced January 18, 2023; released on February 3, 2023.

• Colors:

  • Midnight (a deep, dark blue that appears almost black)

  • White

2. Key Features & Specifications

The 2nd Gen HomePod focuses on delivering exceptional audio quality and deep Siri integration within the Apple ecosystem, while being more affordable than the original.

• Audio Technology:

  • High-Excursion Woofer: A custom-built woofer with a powerful motor that drives a wide range of deep, clean bass.

  • Beamforming Array of Five Tweeters: Five horn-loaded tweeters around the base create a cohesive and immersive soundstage, directing sound throughout the room.

  • Room Sensing Technology: Uses advanced computational audio to analyze the room’s acoustics and automatically tunes the audio in real-time for optimal sound, no matter where it’s placed.

  • Bass EQ Mic: An internal microphone dedicated to monitoring and managing bass levels to prevent distortion.

• Processor: S7 SiP (System in Package). The same chip used in the Apple Watch Series 7. It handles all the computational audio, sensor analysis, and Siri processing.

• Connectivity:

  • Wi-Fi: 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) with MIMO. This is a step down from the original’s Wi-Fi 5 but is sufficient for its tasks.

  • Bluetooth: 5.0

  • Thread: Built-in support for the smart home networking protocol, making it a border router for a more reliable and efficient smart home network.

• Microphones: A four-microphone array for hearing “Hey Siri” clearly, even in a noisy room. (The original HomePod had six).

• Smart Home Features:

  • Matter Support: Acts as a hub for the new universal Matter smart home standard.

  • HomeHub: Functions as a central hub for your HomeKit home, allowing for remote access and automation. It works alongside other hubs like Apple TV and HomePod mini.

  • Temperature & Humidity Sensor: A built-in sensor that can trigger automations (e.g., turn on a fan when it gets too warm, close smart blinds when the sun is heating the room).

3. Design & Build

• Dimensions: 6.6 inches (168 mm) tall.

• Finish: Seamless, acoustically transparent mesh fabric that is available in Midnight or White.

  • The Midnight color features a dark, navy-blue aluminum top with a touch surface.

  • The White color features a light-colored aluminum top.

• Weight: 5.16 pounds (2.34 kg).

• Top Display: A dynamic, color-changing LED matrix on the top surface that animates when interacting with Siri. It is a touch-sensitive surface for play/pause, skip, and volume control.

4. Sound & Audio Features

• 360-Degree Sound: Designed to fill the entire room with high-fidelity audio, no matter where you are.

• Stereo Pair: Two HomePod (2nd gen) speakers can be paired in the same room to create a wide, immersive left and right stereo channel.

• HomePod Mini Interoperability: A 2nd Gen HomePod can be paired with a HomePod mini for a multi-room audio experience, but not for a stereo pair (they must be the same model for stereo).

• Intercom: Use your voice to broadcast a message to other HomePods, HomePod minis, and Apple devices in your home.

• Sound Recognition: Can listen for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and send a notification directly to your iPhone.

5. Compatibility & Requirements

• Required Device: An iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with the latest iOS/iPadOS and the Home app.

• Supported Services: Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Music Voice Plan. Also supports third-party services like Pandora and iHeartRadio via Siri, with more limited control.

6. What’s in the Box

• HomePod (2nd Generation)

• Power Cable (color-matched)

• Documentation

7. Distinguishing from Other Models

• vs. Original HomePod (1st Gen):

  • Price: The 2nd gen launched at a significantly lower price.

  • Microphones: 4 vs. 6 on the original.

  • Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) on the original.

  • U1 Chip: Removed in the 2nd generation.

  • New Features: Adds a temperature/humidity sensor and support for Matter.

  • Sound: The audio quality is remarkably similar, with many reviewers finding it nearly indistinguishable from the original, which was renowned for its sound.

• vs. HomePod Mini:

  • Size & Sound: The HomePod (2nd gen) is significantly larger and delivers a much more powerful, room-filling sound with substantial bass that the mini cannot match.

  • Features: The 2nd gen HomePod has a built-in temperature/humidity sensor and sound recognition for alarms, which the mini lacks.

  • Price: The HomePod (2nd gen) is a premium, more expensive option compared to the mini.

Summary

The HomePod (2nd Generation) is Apple’s flagship smart speaker, designed for users who prioritize premium audio quality and deep integration within the Apple ecosystem. It’s an excellent hub for a smart home (with Matter and Thread support) and delivers a powerful, room-filling sound that is ideal for music lovers. It strikes a balance between the audiophile-grade (but discontinued) original HomePod and the more affordable, compact HomePod mini.