Apple Lowers HomePod Price from $349 to $299

Apple has reduced the price of its HomePod smart speaker from $349 to $299. The HomePod arrived late on the scene compared to similar speakers and costs significantly more, even at this reduced price. Macworld reports that the 15% price reduction appears permanent.

Apple is still targeting the upper end of pricing for smart speakers at $299. Amazon and Google have smart speakers that are significantly cheaper. The Macworld story notes that the Sonos One, which includes Amazon Alexa, is also cheaper the the HomePod at $199.

An entry on 9to5Mac calls the reduce price a "much more competitive offering." The lower base price of $299 could lead to deals that bring the HomePod cost down a little closer to that of competing competing speakers.

Here's a review of the Apple HomePod from Erin Lawrence: