The original HomePod, launched by Apple in 2018, was a game-changer in the smart speaker market. With its sleek design, impressive sound quality, and seamless integration with Apple devices, it quickly gained a loyal following. However, as with all technology, the HomePod’s popularity eventually waned, and it was discontinued in 2021. But have you ever wondered, how much did the old HomePod cost when it was first released?
The Launch and Pricing of the Original HomePod
The HomePod was first announced by Apple in June 2017 at the company’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The device was initially priced at $349, making it one of the more expensive smart speakers on the market at the time. The high price point was largely due to the device’s advanced technology, including its A8 chip, 7 tweeters, and 4-inch woofer.
The original HomePod was available for pre-order on January 26, 2018, and officially launched on February 9, 2018. At launch, the device was only available in two colors: space gray and white.
The Competition: Comparing Prices of Other Smart Speakers in 2018
When the HomePod was released, the smart speaker market was already crowded with devices from established brands like Amazon, Google, and Sonos. Here’s a look at how the HomePod’s price compared to its competitors:
| Smart Speaker | Launch Price (2018) |
| — | — |
| Amazon Echo (2nd Gen) | $99.99 |
| Google Home | $129 |
| Sonos One | $199 |
| HomePod | $349 |
As you can see, the HomePod was significantly more expensive than its competitors, which may have been a factor in its eventual discontinuation.
Why the High Price Tag?
So, what justified the HomePod’s high price tag? Here are a few factors that contributed to its cost:
Advanced Technology
The HomePod was packed with advanced technology, including:
- Apple’s A8 chip, which provided fast processing and efficient power management
- A custom-designed amplifier that powered the device’s 7 tweeters and 4-inch woofer
- A advanced acoustic modeling that allowed for real-time audio processing and optimization
These features combined to create a device that could produce high-quality sound and perform complex tasks like spatial awareness and automatic audio calibration.
Premium Design and Construction
The HomePod’s sleek, compact design was a major selling point. The device was wrapped in a mesh fabric that helped to improve sound quality and reduce diffraction. The top of the device featured a touch-sensitive display that allowed users to control the speaker and access Siri.
The HomePod’s construction was also top-notch, with a durable, high-quality build that felt solid and premium in the hand.
The Impact of the HomePod’s High Price
The HomePod’s high price tag had a significant impact on the device’s adoption and subsequent sales. Here are a few ways in which the price affected the HomePod’s performance:
Sales and Adoption
The HomePod’s high price made it inaccessible to many consumers, particularly those who were new to the smart speaker market. As a result, sales of the device were slower than expected, and the HomePod ultimately failed to gain significant market share.
Competition from Other Apple Devices
The HomePod’s high price also put it in direct competition with other Apple devices, like the iPhone and iPad. Many consumers who were interested in purchasing a smart speaker opted for more affordable options from other brands, rather than spending hundreds of dollars on a HomePod.
The Legacy of the Original HomePod
Although the original HomePod is no longer available for purchase, its legacy lives on in the form of its successor, the HomePod mini. Launched in 2020, the HomePod mini is a more affordable, compact version of the original device. Priced at just $99, the HomePod mini has been a huge success for Apple, and has helped to reinvigorate the company’s smart speaker efforts.
In conclusion, the original HomePod’s high price tag, while justified by its advanced technology and premium design, ultimately contributed to its lack of success. Despite this, the device remains an important milestone in the development of smart speaker technology, and its legacy continues to shape the market today.
What was the original price of Apple’s HomePod when it was first released?
The original price of Apple’s HomePod when it was first released in 2018 was $349. This pricing positioned the HomePod as a premium smart speaker, competing with high-end models from other manufacturers.
At the time of its release, the HomePod was marketed as a high-quality speaker with advanced features such as spatial awareness and multi-room audio capabilities. The premium pricing was reflective of the device’s advanced technology and sleek design.
Was the original HomePod a commercial success?
The original HomePod did not achieve the level of commercial success that Apple had anticipated. Despite its advanced features and high-quality sound, the device was criticized for its limited smart functionality and high price point.
Sales of the HomePod were modest, and the device failed to gain significant market share in the smart speaker market. This led Apple to adjust its pricing strategy, and in 2020, the company reduced the price of the HomePod to $299.
What were some of the key features of the original HomePod?
The original HomePod was launched with a range of advanced features, including spatial awareness, which allowed it to automatically adjust its sound output based on the room it was in. It also supported multi-room audio, allowing users to control multiple HomePods in different rooms.
Additionally, the HomePod was integrated with Apple’s virtual assistant, Siri, allowing users to control their music playback, set reminders, and access information with voice commands. The device also supported Apple’s AirPlay 2 protocol, enabling users to stream audio from their iOS devices.
How did the original HomePod compare to its competitors?
When the original HomePod was released, it was competing with other smart speakers such as Amazon Echo and Google Home. While the HomePod offered superior sound quality, its limited smart functionality and high price point made it less attractive to some consumers.
In contrast, Amazon and Google’s smart speakers offered more comprehensive smart home capabilities, including integration with a wider range of third-party devices. However, the HomePod’s focus on audio quality and sleek design made it a compelling option for Apple fans and audiophiles.
Did Apple discontinue the original HomePod?
Yes, Apple discontinued the original HomePod in March 2021. The company cited the reason for discontinuation as a focus on the newer, more affordable HomePod mini, which was released in 2020.
The discontinuation of the original HomePod marked a shift in Apple’s smart speaker strategy, with the company focusing on more affordable and compact devices. The HomePod mini has proven to be a more popular and affordable option for consumers.
Can I still buy an original HomePod?
While Apple has discontinued the original HomePod, it is still possible to find new or used devices for sale from third-party retailers or online marketplaces. However, be cautious when purchasing from unauthorized sellers, as you may not be eligible for manufacturer warranties or support.
Additionally, some retailers may still have remaining stock of the original HomePod, so it’s worth checking with authorized Apple resellers or online retailers. Keep in mind that availability and pricing may vary.
Is the HomePod mini a worthy successor to the original HomePod?
The HomePod mini is a more affordable and compact version of the original HomePod, offering many of the same features and capabilities. While it lacks some of the advanced features of the original, such as spatial awareness, it still offers high-quality sound and seamless integration with Apple devices.
The HomePod mini has proven to be a more popular option for consumers, with its smaller size and lower price point making it a more accessible entry point into the world of smart speakers. While it may not offer the same level of audio quality as the original HomePod, it is a worthy successor in terms of its ease of use and affordability.