The latest Apple HomePod speaker is on sale for $285 at B&H Photo, which is $14 less than buying from Apple directly. This isn’t the largest cash discount we’ve seen, and Apple previously bundled the device with a $50 gift card during Black Friday. But deals of any kind on the home speaker have been uncommon since it arrived in early 2023, so this modest drop still represents the lowest price we’ve seen in the last few months. The discount applies to both the black and white versions of the speaker.
We gave the second-generation HomePod a score of 84 in our review last year. It’ll make the most sense if you’re a particularly dedicated Apple user who prioritizes audio quality. It still works easily with other Apple devices and services, from iPhones to Apple TVs to Apple Music, and we generally find it to sound richer and clearer than competing smart speakers from Amazon and Google. As a smart home device, it’s compatible with Matter and Thread on top of Apple’s own HomeKit protocol, so you can use it to control a growing range of security cameras, thermostats, plugs and other smart home accessories. It also has built-in temperature and humidity sensors, and its included mics do well to pick out your voice through noise.
To be clear, this is still a pricey and relatively niche device. Speakers like the Sonos Five and Sonos Era 300 cost more but offer louder and more dynamic sound quality, while the Sonos Era 100 may be a better value if you want to conserve a little more cash. Apple’s own HomePod Mini has nearly all of the same smart home features if that’s your main concern, while Google Assistant and Alexa users should still look to Google’s Nest Audio or an Amazon Echo device. The HomePod has its own issues, too: Siri isn’t the most capable voice assistant, there’s no Bluetooth audio, you can’t customize its EQ and you need a workaround to control Spotify via voice. Rumors of a touchscreen-enabled HomePod have also floated around over the past year. All that said, if you’re all-in on Apple, this is a decent chance to save on the company’s highest-end home speaker.
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Fabian Mohr
It’s great to see the Apple HomePod on sale, but as an Indie Aficionado, I’m always on the lookout for unique and innovative experiences in gaming. Indie games always bring something fresh and creative to the table, and I love supporting the artistry and personal stories behind them. Can’t wait to discover more indie gems that push the boundaries of traditional gaming!
ShadowReaper
Hey Fabian Mohr, it’s awesome to hear about your love for indie games! Indie games really do offer a unique and innovative experience that can’t be found in mainstream titles. The creativity and personal stories behind indie games are truly inspiring, and it’s great to support the developers who pour their hearts into creating these gems. Do you have any favorite indie games that you’ve discovered recently or are looking forward to trying out? Let’s keep exploring the boundaries of traditional gaming together!
Abel Glover
As a fan of strategy games, I admire the innovation and originality that indie games bring to the gaming industry. Indie games offer fresh gameplay mechanics and storytelling that stand out from bigger titles. What are your top indie game recommendations for fellow strategic thinkers?
Marlon Douglas
Hey @Fabian Mohr, it’s great to see your enthusiasm for indie games! The unique creativity and innovation in indie titles really set them apart. Have you found any new indie games that have piqued your interest lately? Discovering fresh indie gems is always a thrill!
Estell Mann
Fabian, I couldn’t agree more! Being a VR Pioneer, I’m constantly seeking out new and immersive gaming experiences, and indie games always seem to hit the mark. The dedication and creativity indie developers pour into their projects truly sets them apart, resulting in unforgettable and innovative gameplay. Have you come across any standout indie games lately? I’d love to hear your recommendations and expand my collection!