New HomePod 16.1 Software Release Brings Matter Support to Apple TV

Apple on Monday released new software for the HomePod and HomePod mini smart speakers. The Homepod 16.1 software brings support for the Matter smart home standard.

According to Apple’s release notes:

Software version 16.1 adds support for Matter, the new smart home connectivity standard that enables a wide variety of smart home accessories to work together across ecosystems. This update also includes performance and stability improvements.‌‌‌‌‌

Your HomePod or HomePod mini should update automatically, but you can also manually update your device by doing the following:

1. Open the Home app.
2. Tap on the home icon, which can be found in the upper left corner of the app display.
3. If you have only one home set up, this will take you directly to settings, and you can skip directly to Step 5. If you have multiple homes set up, tap “Home Settings” on the sheet that pops up.
4. Tap your desired home.
5. Scroll down to “Software Update.”
6. Pull down from the top of the iPhone or iPad screen to check for an update.

Once you’ve tapped on “Software Update,” you’ll see the current version of the ‌HomePod‌ software that is installed on your HomePod or HomePod mini. You can also toggle off automatic updates if you want.

If there is an available update, tap the “Install” button to update your ‌HomePod‌. If you have more than one HomePod or HomePod mini in your home, each one will be updated at the same time via this software update feature.