Apple discontinues the original HomePod

Apple has discontinued the original HomePod to focus on the HomePod mini. The original HomePod was introduced four years ago but wasn’t able to grab market share like Amazon’s and Google’s smart speakers due to its price tag.

HomePod was first priced at $350 which was too high compared to that of existing smart speakers in the market. Amazon’s Echo Dot costs $49.99, for instance. With other affordable options available in the market, HomePod remained lifeless which led Apple to lower its price down to $299. However, it was still a steep price point to compare.

Apple unveiled the ‌HomePod mini last year‌ with similar features to ‌the HomePod‌, but with a less expensive price tag. The ‌HomePod mini‌ is available for $99 and offers a premium audio experience for the price. In Apple’s statement to TechCrunch:

HomePod mini has been a hit since its debut last fall, offering customers amazing sound, an intelligent assistant, and smart home control all for just $99. We are focusing our efforts on the HomePod mini. We are discontinuing the original HomePod, it will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores, and Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates and service and support through Apple Care.

Apple’s HomePod mini is available in either white or space gray and supports Apple Music, podcasts, radio stations from iHeartRadio, radio.com, and TuneIn.