Earlier this month, Apple released a 14.3 software update for the HomePod and HomePod mini, and since then, it has been discovered that this update allows the HomePod mini to be powered by selected 18W chargers.
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As mentioned in a Reddit thread spotted by 8 Bit, and confirmed by MacRumors, the HomePod mini now works with Apple’s own 18W USB-C power adapter and selects 18W power adapters from brands like Aukey. One user even managed to power the HomePod mini with an 18 W battery from Cygnett, allowing portable use.
Previously, when you tried to use the HomePod mini with a rated power adapter below 20W, the speaker would simply display an orange light and would not work. This may still be the case for some 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 on an iPhone 11 Pro or other device.
To check if HomePod mini is running the software update 14.3, open the Home app on an iPhone, tap the home icon in the upper left corner, tap Home settings, and tap Software update. OmeHomePod software updates are installed automatically, unless the feature is disabled, but updates can also be installed manually.