Apple is preparing a new HomePod mini with a more powerful processor - and for good reason
A new hardware revision of the HomePod mini (codename B525) was found in Apple's internal code. The speaker will receive a new processor with T8310 microarchitecture, the same as in Apple Watch S9/S10/S11 processors. This is probably the chip from the S11 (dual-core A16 + 4-core Neural Engine), which is much more powerful than the current S5.
Apple is switching to its own Wi-Fi 6E/Bluetooth chip "Proxima", which eliminates dependence on Broadcom. It will provide higher speeds, lower latency, and better compatibility with other Apple products.
The announcement is expected by the end of 2025, probably along with the iPhone 17 or a new HomePod with a screen.
Why It Matters
Apple puts a more powerful processor in a speaker for a reason. According to the latest rumours, the company is going to radically redesign its own smart home ecosystem. In fact, Apple is going to release a dozen new devices on its own to create this infrastructure. And the new HomePod mini will work in this cohort of smart devices. Apple is going to expand its proprietary ecosystem to the entire home, and the speaker will not only recognise voice and process sound, but also take over the control of other devices.
Source: www.macrumors.com
