Fabric buttons could make a HomePod cover more interactive - Future Apple Hardware Discussions on AppleInsider Forums
The HomePod mini is covered with fabric, though not fabric buttons. Practically every electronic device on the market includes at least some form of button or switch. Be it to turn a device on or off, or to interact with an item, buttons have been around for a long period of time, and are unlikely to disappear anytime soon. However, the current way that buttons operate are somewhat limiting for hardware designers, as they could be quite bulky relative to more important components and elements...
Source: appleinsider.com