Hands-On With Apple TV 4K And HomePod Mini 2
Apple showcased updated versions of the Apple TV 4K and the HomePod mini 2 at its latest event, highlighting new audio capabilities and Siri AI integrations.
Radwan AbdulhadiEditor and technology writer
Apple TV 4K and Siri AI Integration
Apple's recent "Welcome home" event offered a closer look at the revamped Apple TV 4K, which brings Siri AI capabilities directly to the living room. As detailed during hands-on demonstrations, the streaming box incorporates built-in far-field microphones that enable hands-free interaction from across the room, allowing users to issue voice commands without holding a traditional remote.
The primary focus of Siri AI on the platform centers around content discovery. By pulling contextual data from applications like Messages, users can prompt the assistant with requests such as playing specific programs recommended by contacts. Furthermore, the assistant can answer general knowledge questions regarding on-screen entertainment without disrupting the viewing experience.
To prevent interference with media playback, Siri responses appear as text-only displays tucked discretely into the corner of the TV screen. This ensures the assistant does not speak over the audio of the movie or show currently playing, maintaining a clean implementation for living room streaming.
Remote Upgrades and Locating Features
Alongside software adjustments, the hardware received practical improvements, including an overhauled remote control for the Apple TV 4K. While the physical design remains consistent on the outside, internal hardware changes allow the remote to play an audible sound when users ask Siri for help finding it.
This audio-based locating approach functions similarly to how users can play a sound to locate misplaced AirPods. It offers a quicker and more direct method for tracking down the device compared to proximity-based tracking tools.
HomePod Mini 2 Hardware and Features
In addition to the streaming hardware, Apple introduced the updated HomePod mini speaker. The revised model upgrades from the S5 chip found in the 2020 iteration to a new S10 processor. While this updated silicon is intended to power future Siri AI features on the speaker, Apple noted that the assistant functionality will launch at a later date rather than being available immediately.
In the interim, the device introduces two primary additions: Sound Glow and expanded surround sound functionality. Sound Glow utilizes back-lit touch panel lighting to mirror album artwork or visual soundscapes like rain drops and waves, providing subtle ambient lighting effects during playback.
Expanded Home Theater Audio Configurations
A significant audio enhancement allows users to connect up to four HomePod speakers simultaneously to the new Apple TV 4K for home theater setups. Previously, configurations were limited to a traditional two-speaker stereo pair.
Demonstrations showcased different multi-speaker layouts, including a combination of two second-generation HomePods placed at the front and two HomePod mini 2 speakers positioned at the rear to deliver enhanced bass and rumble. Alternatively, a quartet of HomePod mini 2 units managed to produce an enveloping, dimensional soundscape around the listening area.
Desktop Audio and AirPlay Integration
Beyond living room entertainment systems, the updated speakers can also sync with any Mac computer over AirPlay to serve as a desktop audio setup. Pairing a pair of the speakers with an iMac provides a substantial audio upgrade over built-in computer speakers, delivering solid directional sound suitable for basic gaming and media consumption.
Sources
- EngadgetApple TV 4K and HomePod mini 2 hands-on: A look at the audio updates and Siri AI
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