Apple is discontinuing the original HomePod, its first smart speaker that was launched back in 2017. Having had a run of over 4 years, the HomePod in its grey trim is no longer listed on the official Apple e-shop. After sunsetting its $349 smart speaker, Apple says it is turning its attention to the smaller and more affordable HomePod mini moving forward. Here is what Apple said in a statement shared with TechCrunch:
The Space Gray HomePod is currently out of stock on the Apple store.
Apple says the HomePod mini is a hit, but market research doesn't say the same for HomePod
The HomePod Mini was launched back in October last year, and appeared to be a more palatable package, thanks to its $99 price tag. It came equipped with a full-range dynamic driver and a pair of radiators to handle the bass output. Apple fitted its mini smart speaker with an S5 chip to do some computation audio magic for optimizing the sound output. It also allows users to create a stereo system and there is also the U1 chip inside that lets users pair their iPhone with it by just bringing it near the speaker.
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Apple also offered a new intercom feature with the HomePod mini. In my experience, I found the HomePod Mini to be the more compelling – and reasonable – package based on its sound quality and the features it brings to the table for its $99 asking price. Yes, the larger HomePod sounds a lot better, but its high asking price of $349 has been a deterrent for a lot of people. and even though Apple reduced the price to $299 in 2019, it was still on the higher side, especially when compared to what rivals had to offer.