Apple HomePod (2nd Gen)
By Ethan Halfhide · Updated
Apple's full-size smart speaker doubles as a Thread border router and Matter hub.
Apple HomePod (2nd Gen)
Specifications
- Price
- $299
- Device type
- Smart Speaker
- Ecosystems
- HomeKit, Matter
- Rooms
- Living Room, Bedroom, Office
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Thread, Bluetooth
- Hub required
- No
- Rental friendly
- Yes
- Matter certified
- Yes
- Installation
- plug-in
- Energy Star
- No
- Local control
- Yes
- Voice control
- Yes
About
The second-generation HomePod is Apple's premium smart speaker and the anchor of a HomeKit or Matter setup on Apple devices. Beyond room-aware spatial audio, it acts as a Thread border router and Matter controller, and includes built-in temperature and humidity sensors that can trigger automations. It is the most capable Apple Home hub available short of an Apple TV.
How it compares
| Device | Price | Ecosystems | Matter | Hub required | Local control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple HomePod (2nd Gen) | $299 | HomeKit, Matter | Yes | No | Yes |
| Amazon Echo (4th Gen) | $99.99 | Alexa, Matter | Yes | No | No |
| Google Home Speaker | $99.99 | Google Home, Matter | Yes | No | No |
| Amazon Echo Dot Max | $99.99 | Alexa, Matter | Yes | No | No |
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About the author
Ethan Halfhide: Ethan Halfhide is a smart home enthusiast and AI technologist who follows the connected home market closely, from smart locks and security cameras to robot vacuums, lighting, sensors and hubs. He curates HomeGearLab's device directory, comparing products on published specs, compatibility, setup requirements and price so readers can pick gear that fits their home and works together.