Tag: Siri

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Beats Studio Buds + (transparent, 2023)

Although Beats products are not Apple-branded, the Beats by Dr. Dre website states, “Beats by Dr. Dre (Beats) is a leading audio brand founded in 2006 by Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine… Beats was acquired by Apple Inc. in July 2014.” As an Apple collector, I have a small number of Beats products in my collection.

Beats describes the Studio Buds + on their website:

“Beats Studio Buds + custom acoustic platform packs powerful, balanced sound in a sophisticated, pocketable design. Reengineered acoustic venting improves audio precision and gently relieves pressure for a more comfortable all-day fit. Each bud is equipped with a two-layer transducer that flexes to deliver cleaner bass and ultra-low distortion. So whether you’re listening to music or taking calls, Studio Buds + deliver rich, immersive sound wherever you go.”

As a “sister” company to Apple, the Beats Studio Buds + offer the following “Enhanced Apple Compatibility:”

  • One-touch pairing—easy, one-touch setup instantly pairs with every device in your iCloud account
  • “Hey Siri”—simply say “Hey Siri” to activate your voice assistant
  • Find My—locate your lost earbuds on a map based on the last known connected location
  • Over-the-air updates—receive software updates and new features automatically

Beats also offer “Enhanced Android Compatibility:”

  • Google Fast Pair
  • Audio Switch
  • Find My Device

These earbuds offer many features, including:

  • Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)
  • Transparency mode
  • Up to 36 hours of total battery life (9-hour earbuds + 27-hour charging case)
  • One-touch pairing
  • Crisp, clear call performance from upgraded, voice-targeting mics
  • Sweat and water resistant earbuds (IPX4-rated)
  • Four soft eartip sizes
  • Spatial audio for Dolby Atmos
  • Pocket-sized charging case with USB-C connector

The case measures 2.55cm tall, 7.2cm long, and 5.1cm wide. Each bud measures 1.5cm tall, 2.05cm long, and 1.85cm wide. Each bud weighs 5g, and the entire product—2 buds and the case—weighs 59g.

My primary interest in this product was the design including the “transparent” color option. This was the first Apple-backed product released in a semi-transparent design in about 20 years (with the possible exception of updates of the originally Apple-designed Harman Kardon SoundSticks). Other notable transparent Apple products over the years have included the following:

  • iMac (CRT models, 1998–2003)
  • eMate 300 (1997–1998)
  • iBook (“clamshell” models, 1999–2001)
  • Power Macintosh G3 All-in-One (1998)
  • Power Macintosh G3 (Blue & White tower, 1999)
  • Studio Display (various LCD and CRT designs, 1998, 1999, 2000)

As a side-note, some may have forgotten that Apple’s LaserWriter 8500 (1997–1999) used light-green-tinted transparent plastics in its lower drawer and top paper feeder.

As mentioned above, Harman Kardon SoundSticks were reported to have been designed in partnership with Apple and have been available since 2000. Although the product has not changed significantly, it has been updated regularly (2004, 2009, 2012, and 2020).

Sources: Beats, Apple, Macworld, Fandom (LaserWriter 8500)

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HomePod mini (Orange, 2021)

On October 18, 2021, Apple introduced HomePod mini in three new colors: yellow, orange, and blue. The three new colors joined the two original colors of white and space gray. Apple describes the HomePod mini as:

“Jam-packed with innovation, HomePod mini delivers unexpectedly big sound for a speaker of its size. At just 3.3 inches tall, it takes up almost no space but fills the entire room with rich 360-degree audio that sounds amazing from every angle. Add more than one HomePod mini for truly expansive sound.”

In addition to adding bold color to the exterior mesh fabric, Apple also color-matched the touch surface, volume icons, and woven power cable.

The technology built in to the HomePod mini is described by Apple:

“HomePod mini uses computational audio to provide a rich and detailed acoustic experience and deliver peak performance. To achieve big sound out of such a compact design, the Apple S5 chip runs advanced software to analyze the unique characteristics of the music. It also applies complex tuning models to optimize loudness, adjust the dynamic range, and control the movement of the driver and passive radiators, all in real time. HomePod mini’s full-range driver, premium neodymium magnet, and pair of force-cancelling passive radiators enable it to produce deep bass and crisp high frequencies.”

This HomePod mini is orange.

Sources: Apple (HomePod mini, Announcement, Availability)

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HomePod mini (Yellow, 2021)

On October 18, 2021, Apple introduced HomePod mini in three new colors: yellow, orange, and blue. The three new colors joined the two original colors of white and space gray. Apple describes the HomePod mini as:

“Jam-packed with innovation, HomePod mini delivers unexpectedly big sound for a speaker of its size. At just 3.3 inches tall, it takes up almost no space but fills the entire room with rich 360-degree audio that sounds amazing from every angle. Add more than one HomePod mini for truly expansive sound.”

In addition to adding bold color to the exterior mesh fabric, Apple also color-matched the touch surface, volume icons, and woven power cable.

The technology built in to the HomePod mini is described by Apple:

“HomePod mini uses computational audio to provide a rich and detailed acoustic experience and deliver peak performance. To achieve big sound out of such a compact design, the Apple S5 chip runs advanced software to analyze the unique characteristics of the music. It also applies complex tuning models to optimize loudness, adjust the dynamic range, and control the movement of the driver and passive radiators, all in real time. HomePod mini’s full-range driver, premium neodymium magnet, and pair of force-cancelling passive radiators enable it to produce deep bass and crisp high frequencies.”

Sources: Apple (HomePod mini, Newsroom: Announcement, Availability)

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Apple TV HD (2021) and Siri Remote (Generation 2, 2021)

The Apple TV HD (A1625) was previously known as the Apple TV Generation 4. It was originally released in 2015 when it came with the Siri Remote (Generation 1). In 2021 Apple renamed this device the “Apple TV HD” upon release of the Apple TV 4K (Generation 2). Both the Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K (Generation 2) shipped with a then-new Siri Remote (Generation 2).

The Apple TV HD had ports including HDMI (1.4), 10/100BASE-T Ethernet, and a USB-C port (“for service and support”). Wireless connectivity included Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 4.0, and an IR receiver. This Apple TV supported 720p or 1080p, but lacked support for 4K.

The Apple TV HD included the Siri Remote (Generation 2). This remote was all silver and included a “touch-enabled clickpad” to “click titles, swipe through playlists, and use a circular gesture on the outer ring.” Like its predecessor, it charged with a Lightning cable, included an IR transmitter, and used an internal microphone for Siri commands. It was larger than the original Siri Remote at 5.4 x 1.4 inches with a weight if 2.2 ounces. This new remote lacks both the accelerometer and gyroscope sensors that were included in the original Siri Remote.

The Apple TV HD used a dual core Apple A8 processor and came with either 32 or 64GB of internal flash memory storage. This example is a 32GB model.

Sources: EveryMac, Apple (Siri Remote, Apple TV)

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HomePod mini (black, 2020)

The HomePod mini was the second device in Apple’s HomePod line of intelligent, Siri-controlled speakers. Despite its small size and relatively low price, the HomePod mini offered impressive sound quality. Apple described the HomePod mini: “Jam-packed with innovation, HomePod mini delivers unexpectedly big sound for a speaker of its size. At just 3.3 inches tall, it takes up almost no space but fills the entire room with rich 360‑degree audio that sounds amazing from every angle.”

Apple designed the HomePod mini to allow homes to use multiple devices:

“With multiple HomePod mini speakers placed around the house, you can have a connected sound system for your whole home. Ask Siri to play one song everywhere or, just as easily, a different song in each room. And HomePod mini works with HomePod for multiroom audio and features like Intercom. If you want to take the amazing sound experience of HomePod mini even further, you can create a stereo pair. Two HomePod mini speakers paired in the same room create left and right channels for an immersive soundstage.”

The HomePod mini was spherical with a flat top and bottom. It measured 3.3 inches high and 3.9 inches wide. Internally, it used four microphones and allowed real-time tuning through computational audio. The HomePod mini had no ports and connected wirelessly to audio sources including Apple Music, iTunes music purchases, iCloud Music Library with an Apple Music or iTunes Match subscription, and some third-party services. In addition, it could play content from any device that allowed AirPlay streaming (AirPlay 2). Wireless technology included 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.

The top of the device provided a backlit touch surface for certain controls: tap to play/pause music or Siri; double-tap to skip; triple-tap to skip back; touch and hold to access Siri; and tap or hold + or – to control volume up/down.

The HomePod mini was available in black and white. It used a permanently affixed USB-C cable and a provided a 20W USB-C power adapter was included in the box.

This is my second HomePod mini. I purchased it in black, and I’m using it in my kitchen so I now have a HomePod in every main living area.

Photography note: Since a few people have asked, I have 2 Hue LCD color lights that are part of my photography table. The 2 IKEA lights are clipped to the bottom of the table and are positioned up. Most of my photos use these lights set to a pure white color for the background, but occasionally I use the Hue app to add a color wash to the white sheet backdrop. In this case, I used the HomePod mini box colors as inspiration.

Source: Apple (Overview, Tech Specs)

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HomePod mini (white, 2020)

The HomePod mini was the second device in Apple’s HomePod line of intelligent, Siri-controlled speakers. Despite its small size and relatively low price, the HomePod mini offered impressive sound quality. Apple described the HomePod mini: “Jam-packed with innovation, HomePod mini delivers unexpectedly big sound for a speaker of its size. At just 3.3 inches tall, it takes up almost no space but fills the entire room with rich 360‑degree audio that sounds amazing from every angle.”

Apple designed the HomePod mini to allow homes to use multiple devices:

“With multiple HomePod mini speakers placed around the house, you can have a connected sound system for your whole home. Ask Siri to play one song everywhere or, just as easily, a different song in each room. And HomePod mini works with HomePod for multiroom audio and features like Intercom. If you want to take the amazing sound experience of HomePod mini even further, you can create a stereo pair. Two HomePod mini speakers paired in the same room create left and right channels for an immersive soundstage.”

The HomePod mini was spherical with a flat top and bottom. It measured 3.3 inches high and 3.9 inches wide. Internally, it used four microphones and allowed real-time tuning through computational audio. The HomePod mini had no ports and connected wirelessly to audio sources including Apple Music, iTunes music purchases, iCloud Music Library with an Apple Music or iTunes Match subscription, and some third-party services. In addition, it could play content from any device that allowed AirPlay streaming (AirPlay 2). Wireless technology included 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.

The top of the device provided a backlit touch surface for certain controls: Tap to Play/Pause music or Siri; Double-tap to Skip; Triple-tap to Skip back; Touch and hold to access Siri; and Tap or hold + or – to control Volume up/down. The HomePod mini was available in black and white. This example is white.

I ordered this particular HomePod soon after it was released. While Apple packaging is well-known for its attention to detail, even the mailing box seemed to have received the Apple packaging treatment. The outer cardboard box featured a wraparound pull-tab that separated the box halves with no need for a tape-cutting blade. Once removed, the inner retail box was revealed which, surprisingly, was shrink-wrapped with no pull tab.

The AirPod mini used a permanently affixed USB-C cable and provided a 20W USB-C power adapter.

Source: Apple (Overview, Tech Specs)

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AirPods Pro with Wireless Charging Case (2019)

AirPods Pro with Wireless Charging Case were released in 2019 as a follow up to the immensely popular AirPods with Apple promising “Magic like you’ve never heard.” AirPods Pro add a number of features in addition to standard AirPods, most notably Active Noise Cancellation and a custom fit using three included sets of rubber “ear tips.” Connectivity is through Bluetooth 5.0.

Like standard AirPods, AirPods Pro easily connect to iPhone or Apple Watch using a simple connection interface that begins automatically when AirPods Pro are unboxed and in proximity to a device.

AirPods Pro are powered by an Apple-designed H1 chip. They use a force sensor on the stem and/or Siri to allow direct control of many functions. They also allow Audio Sharing between two sets of AirPods.

The AirPods Pro case allows both storage and charging. The case connects to a Lightning port or can use a wireless Qi-certified charger.

Audio technology includes: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, vent system for pressure equalization, custom high-excursion Apple driver, and custom high dynamic range amplifier.

Sensors include: dual beamforming microphones, inward-facing microphone, dual optical sensors, motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer, and a Force sensor.

Controls include:
Press once to play, pause, or answer a phone call.
Press twice to skip forward.
Press three times to skip back.
Press and hold to switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode.
Say “Hey Siri” to do things like play a song, make a call, or get directions.

Source: Apple

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HomePod T-shirt (white, multicolor, XXL, 2017)

This T-shirt is white with the top view of a white Apple HomePod design. The center of the design features the multicolor pattern displayed on a HomePod when Siri is responding. The shirt was purchased at the Infinite Loop Apple Store in Cupertino, CA. Its product number is HM3C2LL/A.

The shirt is a size XXL, unopened in its original box.

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iPhone 4S (2011)

The iPhone 4S was the product that first introduced the Siri voice assistant. The iPhone 4S was designed around a stainless-steel body with a glass front and back. It had a 3.5-inch LED-backlit 960×640 326 ppi multi-touch Retina display and included two noise-cancelling microphones. It was available in black or white.

The iPhone 4S supported both GSM and CDMA networks and included 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0. It used a dual-core Apple A5 processor; 512 MB of RAM; and 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB of internal storage. It had two cameras: an 8 megapixel HD camera (1080p at 30 FPS) with an LED flash on the rear and FaceTime camera on the front that allowed FaceTime video calls over Wi-Fi.

Source: EveryMac.com

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Siri Remote (2015)

The Siri Remote was released in 2015 along with the Apple TV Generation 4. This remote had a glass trackpad, two microphones, and five buttons. The buttons included Menu, Home, Siri, Play/Pause, and a combined Volume up/down button. This remote used both IR and Bluetooth to connect to the Apple TV. The remote also included two sensors for gaming, an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

The finishes of the remote included a matte finish on the trackpad and a smooth, glossy finish at the bottom. The textured finishes helped differentiate the orientation of the remote when using it in the dark or by touch.

The trackpad on the Siri Remote supported limited gestures, including swipe, click, and tap.

Unlike earlier Apple Remotes, the Siri Remote used a built-in rechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery that charged using a Lightning port at the bottom.

The design of this remote was slightly revised after initial production. The original design had a solid black Menu button. The revised design added a white raised ring around the the Menu button.

References: Wikipedia.com, Apple Developer