In yet another mega digital event of the year the Cupertino-based tech giant has launched some more exciting gadgets for the Apple users, fans and critiques. During the 'Hi, Speed' virtual event on Tuesday, Apple launched its next smart speaker, the HomePod mini, which is a smaller device than the original HomePod. ALSO READ | Apple Event LIVE Updates: Check Prices, Specifications & More About Products Launched Tonight

The version is way better and advanced as compared to the HomePod which was announced at WWDC 2017. The newly launched high-end speaker with company’s Siri voice assistant claims to compete against Amazon’s Echo lineup and other new products like the Nest Audio from Google.

Apple HomePod Mini: Know here design, features, price and more

Design

Given Apple’s penchant for aesthetics, the HomePod mini is not too different from the existing HomePod. The model is spherical, like the new Echo and covered in the familiar mesh speaker grille with a small display at the top. The Backlit touch surface allows to control volume, play/pause and illuminates when Siri is invoked. The smart speaker will be available in two colours: White and Space Grey.

Features

Though its smaller in size but the latest addition to the HomeKit lineup is set to excite you with its few features. With better sound quality, intelligent assistant, smart home, privacy and security, the newly launched HomePod Mini has come with a full package.

It provides full-range dynamic driver and two passive radiators for bass response. You'll be surprised to know that it enables acoustic waveguide to send 360-degree sound.

The HomePod Mini has complex tuning models to optimize loudness and dynamic range. Assisted by Siri, the HomePod Mini would do everything you'd expect from a smart speaker. The latest version is smart enough to recognize voices of each member of the household.

Moreover, you can automatically send suggestions from HomePod to CarPlay. It also enables you to send messages from one HomePod to another via new "Intercom" feature.

The HomePod Mini is been enabled to broadcast audio messages through the house, and through iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and CarPlay.

Price

The original Apple HomePod was priced at $350 but the price of the recently launched version of the speakers has dropped significantly to $99. HomePod Mini priced at Rs 9,990 in India. You'll be able to place the orders from November 6 onwards while the shipping will commence from November 16. You may be jealous to know that the HomePod is available for even less price for the Apple employees.

HomePod Original

Priced $349, Apple's original HomePod was announced at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June, 2017. It was supposed to go on sale before the end of the 2017, but it was delayed in mid-December. The iPhone maker's focus was on music and sound quality, rather than the speaker's intelligence.