Matter<\/a> and Thread on top of Apple’s own HomeKit protocol, so you can use it to control a growing range of security cameras, thermostats, plugs and other smart home accessories. It also has built-in temperature and humidity sensors, and its included mics do well to pick out your voice through noise.<\/p>\nTo be clear, this is still a pricey and relatively niche device. Speakers like the Sonos Five and Sonos Era 300<\/a> cost more but offer louder and more dynamic sound quality, while the Sonos Era 100<\/a> may be a better value if you want to conserve a little more cash. Apple’s own HomePod Mini<\/a> has nearly all of the same smart home features if that’s your main concern, while Google Assistant and Alexa users should still look to Google’s Nest Audio<\/a> or an Amazon Echo device. The HomePod has its own issues, too: Siri isn’t the most capable voice assistant, there’s no Bluetooth audio, you can’t customize its EQ and you need a workaround<\/a> to control Spotify via voice. Rumors of a touchscreen-enabled HomePod<\/a> have also floated around over the past year. All that said, if you’re all-in on Apple, this is a decent chance to save on the company’s highest-end home speaker.<\/p>\nFollow <\/em>@EngadgetDeals<\/em><\/a> on Twitter and <\/em>subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter<\/em><\/a> for the latest tech deals and buying advice.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n