Apple today announced HomePod (2nd generation), a powerful smart speaker that delivers next-level acoustics in a gorgeous, iconic design. Packed with Apple innovations and Siri intelligence, HomePod offers advanced computational audio for a groundbreaking listening experience, including support for immersive Spatial Audio tracks. With convenient new ways to manage everyday tasks and control the smart home, users can now create smart home automations using Siri, get notified when a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm is detected in their home, and check temperature and humidity in a room — all hands-free.

It’s no secret that I’m a massive HomePod fan. We have three HomePods and two HomePod minis scattered throughout the house, and we use them every day for listening to music, controlling our smart home, asking random questions, and (my favorite use case) watching TV with incredible sound from a full-size stereo pair.

When the original HomePod was discontinued, I was disappointed—embarrassingly so. The product was never a massive commercial hit, but for those of us willing to pay the price for it, the HomePod was incredible. I’ve spent the past couple of years wondering what I’m going to do if something ever goes wrong with mine and I need a replacement.

Now I know: I can just buy a second-generation HomePod! The new version features the same iconic design as the original and packs some great new features:

the S7 chip originally released in the Apple Watch Series 7
a bigger screen on top for animations and touch interactions
a temperature and humidity sensor
Matter and Thread support for the future of the smart home
a U1 chip for quick audio handoff from iPhone
sound recognition to let you know if the HomePod detects a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm

Some have expressed concerns about this update, especially when it comes to design, price, and a reduction in the number of speakers and microphones in the device. Personally, I love the design and think $299, though undeniably high, is reasonable for what you’re getting. This is especially true given that the HomePod is the premium product in a lineup starting at just $99 for the HomePod mini.

We don’t know how/if the changes to the HomePod’s internals will affect its sound quality and ability to understand spoken commands. I would assume Apple’s sound engineering has come a long way since the original HomePod was released, so maybe they’re able to do more with less. Their marketing sure hypes up the sound quality; I imagine the HomePod will deliver on that promise.

I am so happy to see the full-size HomePod return to Apple’s lineup. This is a space the company should be actively involved in, and I hope this is just the start of a bright future for Apple’s investment in the home.

The second-generation HomePod is available to pre-order now with first shipments arriving February 3. It comes in white or midnight mesh finishes and costs $299.