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On October 27, 2026, 9to5Mac reported that in the iOS 27.2 update, Apple made the HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod mini 2 usable as the default audio output for Mac, reducing latency through a peer-to-peer connection, but requiring the Mac to support Wi-Fi 6E, with earlier Apple Silicon models such as the M1 series excluded. The same update also added the Sound Glow light effect and Lock Controls, the latter covering all models including the first-generation HomePod. Subsequently, the HomePod mini 2 went on sale on October 30, priced at $149 in the United States, upgrading to the S10 chip, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 6, and able to form a four-speaker surround sound setup with Apple TV 4K; Siri AI features require a subsequent software update and depend on an iPhone or iPad that supports Apple Intelligence.
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Latest development · Report
HomePod mini 2 Now on Sale Today: A Full List of New FeaturesDevelopments
2 confirmed developments
- Source:MacRumors Apple Intelligence
Apple makes HomePod the default wireless speaker for Mac in the 27.2 update
Source:9to5Mac
Reports and discussion timeline
Browse reports and discussion by time. Their evidence levels remain distinct.
Oct 30
MacRumors Apple Intelligence
HomePod mini 2 Now on Sale Today: A Full List of New Features
HomePod mini 2 goes on sale today, priced at $149 in the US, available in White, Midnight, and the two-tone Pink, Green, and Blue colorways. The new model upgrades to the S10 chip, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 6, and supports four-speaker surround sound when paired with Apple TV 4K; Siri AI features will require a later software update and depend on an iPhone or iPad that supports Apple Intelligence. The number of microphones has been reduced from 4 on the previous generation to 3.
Oct 29
MacRumors Apple Intelligence
HomePod mini 2 Goes on Sale Tomorrow: Features S10 Chip and Wi-Fi 6E, Siri AI to Roll Out Later
The HomePod mini 2 will arrive and go on sale on October 30, priced at $149, featuring the S10 chip from the Apple Watch Series 10, with Wi-Fi upgraded from Wi-Fi 4 to Wi-Fi 6E. Siri AI will not be available at launch; Apple says it will be provided in a subsequent software update but has not given a timeframe. The new model can be mixed with the full-size HomePod 2 to form front and rear surround sound, and adds a Sound Glow lighting effect along with green and pink color options.
Oct 27
9to5Mac
HomePod 27.2 hands-on: can serve as a Mac's default wireless speaker, adds Sound Glow and touch lock
iOS 27.2 lets the HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod mini 2 serve as a Mac's default audio output, significantly reducing latency through a peer-to-peer connection, but it requires the Mac to support Wi-Fi 6E, excluding earlier Apple Silicon models such as the M1 series. The new Sound Glow uses the top LED array to change color with the album artwork, while the touch lock, Lock Controls, covers all models including the original HomePod.