The HomePod mini has no battery, but Apple uses a USB-C cable with which the possibilities to use it as a portable speaker increase considerably.
Apple presented a few days ago the highly anticipated HomePod mini, a small speaker with a spherical design and covered with the textile mesh that has characterized the HomePod since its launch.
To the disappointment of many, this small speaker does not incorporate a battery, so it cannot be used if it is not connected to the power, but Apple has made a move that few expected: the cable that supplies power to it is a cable with a USB-C connector.
In addition, Apple provides us with the 20W USB-C charger (here) in the box. This is good news for those who wanted to use this speaker as a portable speaker. Of course, the cable cannot be separated from the speaker, or at least you should not, as it also happens in the normal HomePod.
Having a USB-C cable means that you can use your laptop to listen to music, as long as it has USB-C and has enough power for it. Or you can plug the HomePod Mini into an external battery with USB-C. You will therefore not need to look for a plug, something impossible in many situations. It's not like it has a built-in battery, but it's a partial solution that many will welcome.
In the absence of seeing the sound quality of the HomePod Mini, which is expected to be good, its price of € 99, its small size and this USB-C cable do not make the idea of using it as a portable speaker anything crazy. Also remember that it is not necessary to have a WiFi network to use the HomePod, since it can be connected directly to your device as explained in the video. Taking your HomePod Mini camping isn't far-fetched, although I wouldn't choose white for that.
Can the HomePod Mini be connected to an external battery? If so, could you play music anywhere outdoors?