HomePod unboxing video: First look at Apple’s smart speaker

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HomePod HomeKit Unboxing
Check out Apple's new HomePod in action.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

After months of delays, Apple’s HomePod is finally available in Apple Stores today. Before we get to the reviews, comparisons and tips, with our latest video we give you a tour of what’s in the box, show you how easy it is to set up, show it off in action and my first impressions.

Check the video out below.

HomePod unboxing: What’s in that box?

Although its an entirely new product, the box and packaging of the HomePod are minimalistic and keep to their beautiful formula.  There’s a 1:1 scale graphic representation of the HomePod on the front with a list of features underneath.

Crack open the box and you’ll find only the HomePod itself along with the usual warranty info, quick-start guides,  and Apple sticker. To my surprise, there was no free trial for Apple Music, (the only music streaming service the speaker fully supports) like there was with the Beats X.

At first glance, the HomePod looks like a shrunken down, rounded Mac Pro. But the material mesh covering the speaker make it much more inviting and stylish enough for any living room.

First impressions

As I’ll be reviewing the HomePod over the weekend,  and need to spend more time with the HomePod to form a full and fair opinion, I’ll keep my first impressions brief.

The HomePod sounds amazing, whilst it’s not quite as loud as I was expecting – it’s still really impressive taking into consideration its size. The sound is crisp and clear with balanced bass, but I’m still on the fence whether its better than an equivalent Bose or Sonos speaker.

What impressed me the most so far, is the speaker’s ability to hear me over the music at full volume. I don’t even have to raise my voice before I finish saying “Hey Siri” the music is turned down and Siri is awaiting my next command.

Will my opinion will change? Only time will tell. Living with the HomePod over the next couple of days could swing it either way. If you’re interested to find out, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to be notified as soon as it drops.

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