Apple replaces the black HomePod mini with a black HomePod mini

If you were hoping for new colors from the HomePod miniApple just announced one. But it’s nothing to get excited about. The company revealed a Midnight shade for its small speaker, replacing the Space Gray version that had been available since the mini’s launch. So, yes, Apple has replaced the black HomePod mini with another black HomePod mini that looks so similar it’s hard to tell the difference. Even in the photo below, shading is likely to explain some color variation.

However, the material used for the new color is different. Apple says the Midnight version is made from 100% recycled mesh fabric. All other items in the HomePod mini lineup, including the Space Gray option, feature a case made from 90% recycled plastic. Everything else about the new option is identical to the existing speaker, from the edge-to-edge illuminated touch panel to the smart home controls and decent audio quality.

Space Gray vs MidnightSpace Gray vs. Midnight

Space Gray vs. Midnight (Apple)

Aside from the higher recycled content of the mesh case, this gave Apple the opportunity to update the HomePod mini’s color palette along with some of its other products. The standard HomePod’s black is already dubbed Midnight. Additionally, the company ditched Space Gray for Midnight when it launched the iPhone 13. It carried it over to the Apple Watch, but there hasn’t been a dramatic change across all devices. The iPhone 15 lineup, for example, has Black Titanium and Black ‘Old Black as its darkest shades.

The Midnight HomePod mini is now available to order from Apple, and will be available in the company’s stores and other retailers starting July 17.

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