HomePod (2nd gen) (2023)
The second-generation HomePod returned to the larger format with S7, five tweeters and home sensors, rather than simply reissuing the original A8 model.
Specs
| Chip | S7 |
| Audio | One woofer; five tweeters; four Siri microphones |
| Connectivity | AirPlay; Thread; Matter; compatible Apple TV 4K |
| Setup, sensors and stereo | Same-model stereo pair; indoor sensors; mains power |
| Release | 2023-02-03 |
| Price | 299 USD |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) |
Launch and context
Apple announced it on January 18, 2023, opened orders that day and set availability from February 3 in initial markets, including Spain. US pricing was $299, in white or midnight. S7 replaced A8; the system combined a high-excursion woofer and five tweeters, compared with seven in the original. These differences describe different architectures, not a direct measure of sound quality. [hp23-launch, hp23-spec, hp18-launch]
How Apple presented it
The pitch combined computational audio, room sensing and Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos. Four microphones served Siri; temperature and humidity sensors enabled home automations. It included Thread, Matter accessory control and home-hub functions. AirPlay and Apple TV 4K integration expanded its uses, subject to compatible hardware and software. Apple Music required a subscription. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm recognition was announced for a later update, not as an active January feature. [hp23-launch, hp23-spec]
Documented issues
A stereo pair requires two of the same HomePod model; a 2018 unit cannot pair in stereo with a 2023 unit. Apple specifies that environmental sensing is optimized for indoors, around 15-30 °C and 30-70% relative humidity; calibration is required and accuracy can decrease during prolonged high-volume playback. Sound Recognition is not a replacement for a safety alarm or intended for emergencies. The silicone base can mark some wooden surfaces. These are documented operating limits, not evidence of a universal defect. [hp-stereo, hp23-spec, hp23-launch, hp-care]
Sources
- hp-care · Apple, Cleaning and taking care of HomePod (2024-01-12) · https://support.apple.com/en-us/101610
- hp-stereo · Apple, Set up a HomePod stereo pair · https://support.apple.com/guide/homepod/set-up-a-homepod-stereo-pair-apd1ed62a52a/homepod
- hp18-launch · Apple, HomePod arrives February 9 (2018-01-23) · https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2018/01/homepod-arrives-february-9-available-to-order-this-friday/
- hp23-launch · Apple, Apple introduces the new HomePod (2023-01-18) · https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligence/
- hp23-spec · Apple, HomePod second generation specifications · https://support.apple.com/en-us/111843
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Updated: October 26, 2026 · Compare this product