HomePod mini 2: Everything We Know So Far

It’s been nearly five years since Apple launched the original HomePod mini. And while the full-size HomePod made a quiet comeback in 2023, its smaller sibling has remained unchanged, aside from a few new colors. But now, signs point to Apple finally working on the HomePod mini 2. If you’re wondering what’s new, what to expect, and when it might launch, here’s everything we know so far.

A Long Overdue Update

The HomePod mini launched back in 2020. At the time, it packed decent audio, Siri support, and smart home features into a compact, budget-friendly speaker. But in the years since, Apple hasn’t really touched it, no hardware updates, no new features (apart from enabling the hidden temperature and humidity sensors in 2022), and still the same design. So yes, an update is overdue.

What to Expect from HomePod mini 2

Don’t expect major design changes. Most reports agree that the HomePod mini 2 will look almost the same on the outside. But inside, Apple is making several key improvements:

Faster Chip and Smarter Connectivity

The biggest upgrade will be under the hood. The current HomePod mini runs on the S5 chip from the Apple Watch Series 5, which dates back to 2019. The new version is expected to make a major leap to a newer chip, possibly the S9, S10, or even an S11-class processor. This change means better responsiveness, faster Siri processing, and more advanced computational audio.

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Apple is also moving away from Broadcom components. The HomePod mini 2 will reportedly feature Apple’s in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, codenamed Proxima or N1, which supports Wi-Fi 6E. That’s a big step up from Wi-Fi 4, offering faster speeds, less interference, and improved smart home reliability.

Better Handoff and Spatial Awareness

The next HomePod mini could also include Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband (U2) chip. This would allow more precise spatial awareness and faster Handoff when moving music or calls between your iPhone and the speaker. Instead of guessing where your phone is, the new HomePod could detect its position within centimeters.

New Colors May Join the Lineup

While Apple hasn’t confirmed design changes, Gurman reported Apple has been testing a red color option for the HomePod mini 2. That’s on top of the existing lineup: Blue, Yellow, Orange, White, and Midnight. Apple might add fresh shades to keep the design feeling new without a major visual overhaul.

Designed for the Smart Home Future

According to Gurman, the next HomePod mini will be built with Apple’s new smart home ecosystem in mind. That means deeper integration with HomeKit and potentially better coordination with Apple TV and other devices. However, it’s not expected to include Apple Intelligence, the new AI features coming to iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Those capabilities likely require more powerful hardware than the mini offers.

Linked to Software 26 and Beyond

Recent updates in HomePod Software 26 hint at what’s coming. Crossfade support for Apple Music, improved AirPlay controls, and manual Wi-Fi selection were added, features expected to fully shine with the HomePod mini 2. Together, they suggest Apple is already laying the groundwork for a smoother, smarter experience.

When Will It Launch?

Based on the latest rumors and retailer reports, Apple is now expected to launch the HomePod mini 2 in early 2026, rather than late 2025 as previously suggested. Earlier reports pointed to a possible in-store release around November 12, but that window has passed without an announcement. With the original HomePod mini reportedly being phased out at retailers, signs now point to Apple preparing for a launch sometime before spring 2026.

Price Expectations

Apple is likely to keep the HomePod mini 2 priced around $99, the same as the current model. It’s the sweet spot that keeps the mini affordable while leaving room for higher-end options like the full-sized HomePod or the rumored HomePod with display.

Here’s a Timeline of HomePod mini 2 Leaks Happened So Far

This timeline provides a clear view of how leaks have evolved. These entries are listed in reverse chronological order (newest at the top). Keep in mind, leaks can sometimes contradict one another—we’ll only know the truth once Apple officially reveals the product.

Note

These leaks may sometimes contain contradictory information, as different sources provide varying accounts. We can only be certain once the device is officially released to the public.

Note: These leaks may sometimes contain contradictory information, as different sources provide varying accounts. We can only be certain once the device is officially released to the public.

HomePod mini 2 May Skip Apple’s N1 Chip

December 16, 2025

Code analysis from Macrumors suggests HomePod mini 2 will not use Apple’s new N1 networking chip after all. Instead, it is expected to stick with MediaTek Wi-Fi and Bluetooth hardware. This goes against earlier rumors that the mini would get Apple’s in-house chip.

HomePod mini 2 Confirmed in Major Apple Leak

December 15, 2025

An internal Apple prototype running an early iOS 26 build was leaked after the device was sold and shared publicly. Analysis of the software, first reported by Macworld, confirmed HomePod mini 2 under the codename B525. The leak shows the next-gen HomePod mini is actively in development for a future launch.

HomePod mini 2 Expected to Use Apple’s Custom Wireless Chip

December 12, 2024

Bloomberg reported that Apple plans to bring its custom Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chip to HomePod mini 2 starting in 2025. The chip is designed by Apple to replace Broadcom parts. It aims to improve efficiency and reduce Apple’s reliance on third-party suppliers.

HomePod mini 2 Launch May Be Very Close

November 2, 2025

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said Apple could launch HomePod mini 2 soon as stores prepare for an overnight refresh. Current HomePod mini stock is running low, which often happens before a new release. The updated model is expected to highlight new Siri and Apple Intelligence features.

Apple Working on All-New Operating System

September 25, 2025

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple is developing a new operating system codenamed “Charismatic,” widely believed to be homeOS. The platform is expected to power Apple’s upcoming smart home hub and future robotics devices, blending elements of tvOS and watchOS. It will focus on widgets, Siri-first interaction, and face-based multi-user support.

Apple Releases HomePod Software 26 With Crossfade and AirPlay Upgrades

September 15, 2025

Apple rolled out HomePod Software 26, adding support for crossfade in Apple Music and improving AirPlay functionality. Users can now ask Siri to play music on another HomePod, alongside general stability and performance enhancements.

HomePod mini 2 May Launch in New Red Color

September 5, 2025

Mark Gurman reported that Apple has tested new color options for the upcoming HomePod mini 2, including a Red variant. The update is expected later this year alongside the new Vision Pro.

HomePod mini 2 to Feature S11-Class Chip and Wi-Fi 6E Support

August 13, 2025

Apple’s upcoming HomePod mini 2 (B525) will feature an S11-class chip with a 64-bit dual-core CPU, 4-core Neural Engine, and Wi-Fi 6E support. The launch is expected between September and December 2025.

iOS 18 Code Leak Confirms New “Proxima” Chip for HomePod mini 2

July 8, 2025

An internal iOS 18 build leak revealed Apple’s upcoming “Proxima” chip—its first in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo chip. It’s expected to power the next Apple TV and HomePod mini 2, replacing the Broadcom chip. The chip should support Wi-Fi 6E or even Wi-Fi 7, enabling faster speeds and improved smart home performance.

iOS 26 Adds Crossfade and Wi-Fi Selection to HomePod

June 25, 2025

With iOS 26 and HomePod Software 26, Apple added Crossfade support to HomePods for smoother music transitions. Users can now set fade durations between 1 and 12 seconds in Apple Music settings within the Home app. A new feature also lets users manually select Wi-Fi networks for HomePods—something previously unavailable. These features are expected to work with the upcoming HomePod mini 2.

HomePod mini 2 Expected Between September and November 2025

January 12, 2025

Mark Gurman reported Apple is targeting a late 2025 launch for the new HomePod mini and Apple TV—likely between September and November. Both devices will include Apple’s custom Wi-Fi + Bluetooth chip with Wi-Fi 6E support. The new HomePod mini may also feature faster performance, improved sound, and new color options.

HomePod mini 2 Scheduled for 2025 With Custom Wi-Fi Chip

December 12, 2024

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple plans to launch a new HomePod mini and a refreshed Apple TV in 2025. Both devices will feature Apple’s first in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip and are expected before September. The chip will boost data syncing and smart home performance.

HomePod mini 2 Mass Production Timeline Leak

February 2, 2023

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed Apple would begin mass production of the HomePod mini 2 in the second half of 2024. Supplier Goertek reportedly secured the NPI (New Product Introduction) and assembly orders. However, this contradicts Gurman’s earlier statement that Apple wasn’t actively working on a refresh at the time.