Apple HomePod, Second Generation

The Apple HomePod has a surprisingly domestic side: built-in temperature and humidity sensors. Music is still the main attraction, but a speaker that also keeps tabs on those two things has a little more going on than its sleek appearance suggests. Think less personal weatherman, more music lover with an interest in the indoor climate.

The second-generation HomePod makes sense as a gift for an Apple enthusiast who appreciates high-quality sound. Siri adds the option to ask about the weather, so it suits someone who likes talking to their tech as well as listening to it. Our vote is to choose it for the music and consider the sensors a useful extra. They give this speaker personality, but the sound is the reason to give it a spot at home.