Apple may launch HomePod mini 2 and new Apple TV 4K in October
According to reports from Bloomberg, Apple is expected to unveil several smart home updates during its upcoming "Welcome home" event. Alongside the anticipated HomeView smart home hub, the lineup may include a redesigned HomePod mini 2 and a new Apple TV 4K. Both devices are rumored to hit the market as early as October 30.
Hardware Upgrades: S10 and A19
The rumors suggest a significant internal overhaul for both devices. The HomePod mini 2 is expected to move to the S10 chip, the same silicon found in Apple Watch, marking a major leap from the current HomePod mini which relies on the older S5 SiP. In terms of aesthetics, the device might expand its color palette to include "Puderrosa" (powder pink) and "Waldgrün" (forest green), joining the existing black, white, and blue options.
The Apple TV 4K is also slated for a processor bump, likely utilizing the A19 chip. This deviates from earlier speculation regarding an A20 Pro or even an A17 Pro. A notable functional addition could be the inclusion of built-in microphones within the Apple TV unit itself. This would allow users to interact with Siri directly without needing a Siri Remote or a HomePod, mirroring the functionality seen in the Amazon Fire TV Cube.
Remote and Ecosystem Focus
Beyond the core hardware, Apple may also refresh the Siri Remote. Reports suggest the inclusion of an integrated speaker to assist users in locating the remote. However, the primary focus of the event is expected to be HomeView, the new smart home hub intended to serve as the centerpiece of Apple's home automation ecosystem.