Whether it is forever or not is a mystery, but Apple has confirmed that it will stop marketing its classic HomePods and that it does not have in its plans to launch a second generation either. The popular speaker of Californians will be discontinued very soon, leaving only the ‘mini’ version available, at which time a certain sector of users will be left homeless. But what alternatives to the HomePod are there right now for those who are late? We analyze which are the speaker options compatible with AirPlay and which may be alternatives to Apple’s.
Timeline of the HomePod’s disappearance
Last week all the alarms went off when some HomePods began to have low stock in some countries. Given what happened with the iMac Pro, many of us wondered if there would be an imminent renovation of this speaker. The fact that in some technological sections it was inferior to the HomePod mini left it in a strange position, but the truth is that instead of evolving it, Apple preferred to discontinue it.
On Saturday, thanks to an official information given to TechCrunch, we learned that Apple is going to focus all its efforts on the improvements of the HomePod mini, making it remain as its only speaker when the other one is out of stock, something that it is already on its own website. Of course, it must be said that the original HomePod will continue to receive updates and technical support if required, so it will not be obsolete yet.
Official alternative: a HomePod mini (or two)
Obviously the fact that it has ‘mini’ in the name already tells us that it is inferior to the normal HomePod, but it must be said that this device has a tremendously balanced sound quality, without distortion at high volumes and with enviable bass. Above its price of 99 euros, buying two is still cheaper than buying a large HomePod now. If we consider that now it will focus all the attention of Apple, it is evident that it is the official alternative when its older brother ceases to be for sale completely.
Do the Amazon and Google options work?
The arrival of the HomePod mini has finally helped Apple to compete face to face with the cheapest smart speakers from Amazon and Google, two of the main references in the sector. While the Amazon Echo Dot or the Google Assistant mini could fall short, the truth is that their large versions could fit perfectly. We are especially struck by the fourth generation Amazon Echo Studio , a speaker that, although we have to recognize a certain inferiority in bass with respect to the classic HomePod, incorporates a very balanced technology, with the possibility of calibrating the sound to our liking and with the always invaluable collaboration of Alexa as an assistant.
The Bose Home Speaker 500 Aims Too High
Another of the reference loudspeakers on the market comes from the always interesting brand Bose. In addition to incorporating a round design that matches any room, it carries a screen with which to better visualize its different sound customization options or its connectivity with devices thanks, among others, to AirPlay 2 support. Its stereo sound quality in a single speaker it is the most striking thing that can be found, although its price is perhaps not the cheapest, but those who use it say that it is worth every euro it costs.
Sonos are another must-have option
Although there would still be many other options on the market, if we focus on those that are the most similar to the HomePod, at least in our opinion, one of the speakers created by Ikea and Sonos could not be missing. The latest generation of these speakers is one of the best options in these price ranges, being able to find high fidelity sound, personalized settings and the integration of Alexa and Google Assistant, but without forgetting the compatibility with Apple equipment thanks to its support. for AirPlay 2.
We are saddened that Apple is putting aside its large HomePod, despite not losing hope that a new generation will arrive in the future. Although we are happy to find that there are good options on the market to replace you. What is the best alternative for you today?
