Apple has stopped production on the standard HomePod to focus exclusively on the HomePod mini, reports TechCrunch. The HomePod mini offers the same features as the HomePod in a smaller and less expensive package.
The larger HomePod has never sold as well as Apple had hoped, due to its high price tag compared to smart speaker offerings from other manufacturers. Apple had originally sold the HomePod for $350 but had dropped the price to $299. The HomePod mini sells for $99.
While Apple had hoped the HomePods excellent sound would provide an edge over competing products from Amazon and others, buyers preferred the cheaper options.
While the HomePod mini can’t provide the same richness of sound as its larger relative, many reviews praised the smaller speaker for its sound quality relative to its small size. The mini offers the same features as its larger sibling, including Siri integration, Apple Music support, and HomeKit controls.
Apple announced in a statement that the HomePod will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store and Apple retail stores.
HomePod mini has been a hit since its debut last fall, offering customers amazing sound, an intelligent assistant, and smart home control all for just $99. We are focusing our efforts on HomePod mini. We are discontinuing the original HomePod, it will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores, and Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates and service and support through Apple Care.