Earlier this month, Apple released a 14.3 software update for the HomePod and HomePod mini, and it has since been discovered that this update can make the HomePod mini work through select 18W chargers.
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As noted in a Reddit thread posted by The 8-bit, and confirmed by MacRumors, the HomePod mini now works with Apple’s own 18W USB-C power adapter and selects 18W third-party power adapters from brands such as Aukey. One user was even able to power the HomePod mini with an 18W Cygnett battery pack, which made portable use possible.
Previously, when you tried to use the HomePod mini with a power adapter of less than 20W, the speaker would simply display an orange light and not function. This may still be the case with certain 18W power adapters, as certain power profiles may be required.
Apple includes a 20W power adapter with the HomePod mini, but many customers may have an 18W power adapter from an iPhone 11 Pro or other device.
To check if your HomePod mini is using the 14.3 software update, open the Home app on an iPhone, tap the home icon in the top left corner, tap Home Settings, and tap Software Update. OmeHomePod geï software updates are installed automatically unless the feature is disabled, but updates can also be installed manually.