HomePod mini Midnight Color: Release Date & Details

Yes, Apple released the HomePod mini in Midnight, a new color option, on July 17, 2023. This deep black-blue finish replaced the previous Space Gray model and is available for the same price. Below, we cover everything you need to know about this release, from how it looks to how it compares with other colors.

Formula

The calculator above estimates the relative loudness drop you experience as you move away from a point source like the HomePod mini. The formula is:

L = 20 × log�₀(1 / d)

Where:

• L = relative sound pressure level in decibels (dB), compared to the level at 1 meter.
• d = distance from the speaker in meters.

This is the inverse-square law for sound in free space. It assumes no reflections or obstructions, so it works best outdoors or in a large, open room.

Worked Example

Using the default values (2 hours of listening time, 3 meters distance):

1. Start with the distance: d = 3 m.
2. Divide 1 by the distance: 1 / 3 = 0.3333.
3. Take the base-10 logarithm: log�₀(0.3333) = -0.4771.
4. Multiply by 20: 20 × (-0.4771) = -9.54 dB.

So at 3 meters away, the sound level is about 9.5 dB lower than at 1 meter. That is a noticeable drop—roughly a quarter of the perceived loudness.

What “Midnight� Actually Looks Like

Midnight is not pure black. It is a very dark blue-gray that shifts under different lighting. In direct light, you can see a subtle blue undertone; in dim light, it reads as black. This is the same finish Apple uses on the iPhone 13 and later, the MacBook Air, and the iPad. On the HomePod mini, the color covers the entire mesh exterior and the touch surface on top. The woven fabric is the same material as before, just dyed differently. The power cable also matches the new color.

Why Apple Replaced Space Gray

Apple often refreshes product colors to keep the lineup feeling new without changing the hardware. Space Gray had been the only dark option since the HomePod mini launched in November 2020. By 2023, Apple had already shifted other products to Midnight, so aligning the HomePod mini made sense for brand consistency. The change was purely cosmetic—the internal components, speaker driver, and software are identical to the Space Gray version. Apple did not announce any performance improvements or new features alongside the color change.

How to Choose Between Midnight, White, and Blue

You now have three color choices for the HomePod mini. Here is how to decide:

• Midnight: Best if you want a dark speaker that blends into shelves or entertainment centers. It hides dust and smudges better than white, but shows lint on the mesh more than you might expect.
• White: The classic look. Matches most home decor, but can yellow slightly over time and shows dirt more easily. It also reflects light, making it stand out in dark rooms.
• Blue: A brighter, more colorful option. It adds a pop of color to a room but may clash with neutral or warm color palettes. It is no longer the only non-neutral choice.

Consider where you will place the speaker. Against a dark wall, Midnight disappears; against a white wall, it creates a strong contrast. If you plan to put it on a bookshelf, think about the other objects around it.

Common Questions About the Midnight Finish

Here are answers to the most frequent questions people ask about the Midnight HomePod mini:

• Does the Midnight color scratch or chip? The mesh fabric is the same as other colors, so it does not scratch like painted plastic. The touch surface on top is a glossy plastic that can show micro-scratches over time, just like the white version.
• Is the Midnight HomePod mini heavier or different in size? No. The dimensions (97.9 mm × 97.9 mm × 84.3 mm) and weight (345 g) are identical to the previous model. The color change does not affect the physical footprint.
• Can I buy the Midnight color in all countries? Yes, Apple launched it in all regions where the HomePod mini is sold, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe. Availability may vary by retailer, but Apple’s own store carries it worldwide.
• Does the Midnight color affect sound quality? No. The mesh fabric is acoustically transparent, meaning it does not block or alter sound waves. The audio output is identical to the White and Blue versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the HomePod mini Midnight released?

The Midnight color was released on July 17, 2023, alongside the second-generation HomePod in Midnight. It went on sale immediately on Apple’s website and in Apple Stores.

Is Midnight the same as Space Gray?

No. Midnight is darker and has a blue undertone, while Space Gray was a neutral dark gray. In most lighting, Midnight looks black, whereas Space Gray looked like a dark silver. Apple discontinued Space Gray when Midnight launched.

Does the Midnight HomePod mini cost more?

No. The price is the same as the White and Blue versions. In the US, it retails for $99. In other countries, the price matches the existing model—for example, £99 in the UK and €109 in Germany.

Will Apple release more colors in the future?

Apple has not announced any additional colors. Historically, Apple has offered limited color options for the HomePod mini—initially Space Gray and White, then Blue, Orange, and Yellow in 2021, then back to three colors in 2023. There is no official indication of future colors.

Can I pair a Midnight HomePod mini with a White one as a stereo pair?

Yes. The color does not affect pairing. You can pair any two HomePod minis of the same generation, regardless of color, to create a stereo pair or use them as a home theater setup with an Apple TV.

Is the Midnight HomePod Mini Worth Buying in 2024?

If you are in the market for a compact smart speaker, the Midnight HomePod mini is still a solid choice in 2024. It offers Siri, AirPlay 2, Thread support for smart home accessories, and surprisingly good sound for its size. The main competition is the Amazon Echo Dot and Google Nest Mini, both of which are cheaper but lack the tight Apple ecosystem integration. If you use an iPhone, the HomePod mini is the most seamless option. The Midnight color adds a premium, modern look that fits well in most homes. The only real downside is that Apple has not updated the hardware since 2020, so you are paying the same price for three-year-old internals. But for most users, the sound quality and Siri integration are more than enough.

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in t | Listening time | hours | 2 | 0 | 24
in d | Distance from speaker | meters | 3 | 0 | 20
out level | Relative loudness at distance | dB | 20 * log10(1 / d) | 1