New HomePod Can't Be Stereo Paired With First-Generation HomePod

Following Apple's new full-size HomePod announcement, many owners of the original HomePod are wondering if it's possible to pair the new ‌HomePod‌ with the first-generation smart speaker of the same name. The short answer is no.

2023 HomePod Pair
Creating a stereo pair with the new ‌HomePod‌ requires another second-generation ‌HomePod‌. In the footnotes from Apple's press release:

Creating a HomePod stereo pair requires two of the same model HomePod speakers, such as two HomePod mini, two HomePod (2nd generation), or two HomePod (1st generation).

That's not to say the two devices can't be used together at all. If you have a new ‌HomePod‌ and first-generation ‌‌HomePod‌ in the home, they can be used to play your music in different rooms, and features like Intercom will work across both devices.

In another notable development, a software update appears to be on the way for the HomePod mini that will add two key features currently exclusive to the new ‌HomePod‌ – temperature and humidity sensing in indoor environments.

The new ‌‌HomePod‌ ‌costs $299 and is available in both white and midnight color options. In-store availability and deliveries to customers will begin Friday, February 3 in select countries.

Related Roundup: HomePod
Buyer's Guide: HomePod (Neutral)

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Top Rated Comments

NavySilver Avatar
36 months ago
I don't think Apple realized that, rather than making me buy two, this news means I will be buying zero of them...
Score: 92 Votes (Like | Disagree)
gmarm Avatar
36 months ago
I expected nothing less ?
Score: 46 Votes (Like | Disagree)
the future Avatar
36 months ago
In (quality) stereo audio, it is absolutely mandatory to use two identical speakers. So even if pairing gen 1 and 2 would be possible, it would still be a bad idea.

That being said, I‘m very curious how the sound of these will compare. I‘m using a pair of first gen HomePods every day and they still sound awesome, especially for the size (and price).
Score: 37 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TSE Avatar
36 months ago
This has to be the most baffling product release ever from Apple.
Score: 28 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jaysapple Avatar
36 months ago
I can’t wait for this to fail. Expensive stereo system that has a terrible virtual assistant and glitches 24/7. Trillion dollar company that can’t get it right. Embarrassing
Score: 23 Votes (Like | Disagree)
sjsharksfan12 Avatar
36 months ago

I don't think Apple realized that, rather than making me buy two, this news means I will be buying zero of them...
So they discontinued the original, bring out a new one, and there is already a big limitation on it. Why would I buy the new one again?
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)