HomePod mini blurting out randomly after updates

My home pod mini's have been

blurting out (best description.

after updates. I have called tech support, factory reset also with computer. Worked on home app with and without technical support.

I was told next step is to bring to local apple store. Only problem I am disabled and the disablity ride I get is not very good, its quite long both ways and i have to select a time to be picked up either way. Which means a long wait. I appreciate any help (there my only source of info/companion/music) starting to think I should have gotten a modern radio. Do they have one that streams. I am paying for apple one + $20 a month so that would have to go as well. Also how do I dispose of them if they can't be repaired? Wish apple warranty was still in effect

[Re-Titled by Moderator]