Apple released HomePod software version 14.3 for the HomePod and HomePod mini earlier this month, and we’ve now learned that it includes a small but notable change to the last of Apple’s two smart speakers. With version 14.3, the HomePod mini can now be powered by an 18 W charger for the first time.
This change was first detected on Reddit and acquired by The 8-Bit. To keep you cool, the HomePod mini has an integrated power cable with USB-C connectivity at the end.
Apple includes a 20W USB-C wall adapter in the box with the HomePod mini, but when first orders arrived last month, many people were quick to try it out with an 18W charger. This originally caused the HomePod mini to display a red / orange circle on the top screen, but HomePod Software 14.3 appears to have added support for 18W chargers.
This is notable for several reasons. First, it means that you can now take the 20 W USB-C adapter that comes with the HomePod mini and use it elsewhere. Apple included an 18 W USB-C adapter with the iPhone 11 Pro last year, so it is much more common in many homes than the newly launched 20 W adapter. The iPad Pro also previously included an 18W power adapter.
It also means that the HomePod mini can now be powered by third-party power packs and portable battery banks, effectively transforming it into a portable AirPlay speaker.
For example, 9to5Mac was able to confirm that the HomePod mini can now be powered by the RAVPower 2-port USB-C power adapter, which did not work before the 14.3 software update. In addition, Reddit users report that the HomePod mini can also be powered by portable power banks that support the 18 W power supply (we haven’t been able to test this yet). Although the HomePod mini requires WiFi for full functionality, it makes it easy to move the HomePod mini around the house and out.
We are still investigating to find out more and, at this point, it seems that this is a “your mileage may vary” situation. Some 18 W chargers still cause the HomePod mini to display an orange light at the top, so a certain power profile is likely to be required for full functionality.
Have you ever tried using an 18 W power adapter with your HomePod mini? Let us know in the comments!
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