HomePod 2 teardown shows what’s different compared to the 2018 model

Two years after the original HomePod was discontinued, Apple introduced the second generation HomePod. The device looks essentially the same as the 2018 model, but with a few minor improvements. But does the new HomePod also look the same as the old one on the inside? That’s exactly what this teardown video shows us.

Teardown shows what’s inside the HomePod 2

YouTube channel Brandon Geekabit (via iPhone in Canada) has shared a complete teardown video of the second generation HomePod. While HomePod 2 is extremely similar to the original model from the outside, there are some notable differences inside.

Looking from the outside, the most noticeable difference is in the display on top of the HomePod. On the new HomePod, the top surface looks exactly the same as on the HomePod mini, which has a large light in its center that changes color when the user is interacting with Siri. On the original HomePod, the light area is much smaller, although the surface is a bit larger.

As the teardown begins, we can already see another difference from the previous model. The power cord of the HomePod 2 is removable, but not only that – Apple now uses a Figure-8 cable for the HomePod, which means that it can easily be replaced with any other similar cable.

The base of the HomePod 2 needs to be detached to give the user access to the first screws. Interestingly, the HomePod 2’s base still leaves ring stains on wooden surfaces just like the first generation.

After removing the mesh that covers the HomePod and the screws on the base, it’s now possible to remove the top part of the speaker. In the original model, there was no easy way to do this. As shown by iFixit, the only way to access the internals of the first HomePod was by cutting into its shell. But the differences between the two HomePods don’t stop there.

As previously reported, the new HomePod has a simplified hardware. There are five tweeters instead of seven, and four microphones instead of six. Still, users seem to agree that the sound quality is about the same as the original HomePod. Another difference is a built-in sensor to show the current room temperature and humidity.

At the end of the teardown, the YouTuber agrees that despite the similarities, HomePod 2 is much easier to take apart. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean that users can easily repair it themselves. You can watch the full teardown below:

More about the HomePod

The new HomePod is now available in stores for $299. It has joined the HomePod mini, which remains available for $99.

• HomePod mini teardown reveals nearly impossible repairs and non-removable power cord
• Hands-on: The new HomePod compared to the original
• HomePod 2 reviews: A successful ‘do-over’ with excellent sound quality, better smart home features