Apple has released the first-generation HomePod priced at $349.
The device is focused on high-quality sound reproduction, and offers Siri on board primarily to assist with delivering content from Apple Music. An Apple Music subscription is not required, however to use the service beyond the three-month trial it costs $9.99 per month.
Many HomePod owners are considering purchasing an AppleCare+ plan for HomePod. In addition to extending the Apple one-year warranty by an extra year, AppleCare+ offers two incidents of accidental damage for a repair fee of $39 each.
First of all, the HomePod is not waterproof. This means no rain, no splashing water on the HomePod from a pool, no sprinklers or snow, etc. The hot sun is probably not an ideal environment for the HomePod, either.
No room mapping data is sent to Apple. HomePod can automatically customize its sound based on the interior of the room. Moving the HomePod means it will scan the area and map sound to the new space.
Apple makes the HomePod in White and Space Gray.
The HomePod features a profile under 7 inches in height. The exterior is covered in a cloth speaker grille, which matches the other parts of the device.
The top of the HomePod includes a display for Siri and volume controls. All components of the HomePod, including the power cable match the White or Space Gray exterior.
