Listen to this Post
2025-02-05
In 2023, Apple fans were still waiting for the promised AirPlay support from Beats, a feature that many, including myself, wished for in the Beats Pill lineup. AirPlay offers a more stable connection than Bluetooth and opens up a range of possibilities, like multi-room audio and Siri integration. While Beats may not have delivered, a creative workaround emerged: turning the HomePod mini into a portable, battery-powered AirPlay speaker. Here’s how I did it and why you might want to try it too.
Summary
Last year, after reviewing the new Beats Pill, I expressed disappointment at its lack of AirPlay support. Instead of waiting for Beats to fulfill its 2017 promise of creating an AirPlay speaker, I decided to make my own portable AirPlay solution. Using a “Battery Base” from PlusAcc, I transformed my HomePod mini into a portable, battery-powered speaker.
The PlusAcc Battery Base includes a 10,000mAh battery and a custom design to secure the HomePod mini. Its built-in cable management system keeps the USB-C cable neatly wrapped, while the base ensures the HomePod stays in place, though you must handle it with care. With this setup, you can carry your HomePod mini around and continue using AirPlay without sacrificing the convenience of Siri.
Battery life is decent, with up to 10 hours of music at 50% volume, and up to 24 hours of standby time. When not in use, the device can be plugged in, offering flexibility for both portability and home use.
This idea was inspired by NilĆ©ane from MacStories, who dubbed her portable HomePod the āRoamPod.ā While this setup isnāt perfect, itās a functional solution that offers a more stable experience than Bluetooth portable speakers.
What Undercode Says:
The transition of HomePod mini from a stationary smart speaker to a portable AirPlay-enabled device is both a creative workaround and a smart use of existing technology. Appleās ecosystem is often criticized for its closed nature, but solutions like the PlusAcc Battery Base make it easier for users to modify their devices to fit specific needs. In this case, turning the HomePod mini into a portable AirPlay speaker adds a layer of flexibility not traditionally seen in Apple’s lineup.
One of the key benefits of using AirPlay over Bluetooth is stability. Bluetooth, while convenient, can often suffer from connection drops, especially when moving between rooms or outdoors. AirPlay, on the other hand, provides a more robust connection, especially in environments where multiple devices are competing for Bluetooth bandwidth. This makes the HomePod mini, when paired with a battery base, an ideal solution for users who want the benefits of AirPlay without the limitations of Bluetooth speakers.
The integration of Siri remains one of the standout features here. Unlike Bluetooth speakers, which often lack voice assistant support, this portable HomePod mini setup allows users to continue interacting with Siri while on the move. For those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, this is an invaluable feature that reinforces Apple’s commitment to seamless device interconnectivity.
However, the setup does come with its own set of challenges. The HomePod mini is not designed to be portable, and while the PlusAcc Battery Base does a decent job of securing it, youāll need to handle the device carefully to avoid accidental damage. The limited battery life is another consideration. Although the PlusAcc base provides a reasonable 10 hours of playback at 50% volume, this still falls short compared to some Bluetooth speakers that offer up to 20 hours or more of continuous use.
In terms of design, the PlusAcc Battery Base is functional but not particularly sleek. While itās practical for the task at hand, it doesnāt blend as seamlessly with the HomePod miniās aesthetic. Itās more of a utilitarian solution than a polished, all-in-one portable speaker design.
Despite these drawbacks, this AirPlay setup is an appealing option for those who already own a HomePod mini and want to expand its capabilities. It offers the portability of Bluetooth speakers with the added benefits of AirPlay stability and Siri functionality. For anyone whoās been hesitant about Beatsā lack of AirPlay support, this workaround could be a solid alternativeāespecially given its affordability at under $50.
In the end, Apple could still do more to bring the HomePod mini into the portable speaker market. NilĆ©aneās suggestions about adding features like better battery life, water resistance, and an official portable design would make the HomePod mini even more compelling as a truly portable AirPlay speaker. Until then, the PlusAcc Battery Base serves as a practical, if imperfect, solution for turning your HomePod mini into a mobile powerhouse.
Lastly, if AirPlay
References:
Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/homepod-mini-battery-airplay-portable-speaker/
https://www.discord.com
Wikipedia: https://www.wikipedia.org
Undercode AI: https://ai.undercodetesting.com
Image Source:
OpenAI: https://craiyon.com
Undercode AI DI v2: https://ai.undercode.help
