Apple on Monday released HomePod Software 18 for the HomePod and HomePod mini. The new software was released alongside iOS 18. The new software brings the option to manually select a Home Hub rather than having HomeKit select one automatically.which will make things easier for users with multiple HomePods and Apple TV models.
A new SharePlay feature allows multiple people to share control of what’s playing on a HomePod via Apple Music by bringing an iPhone close to another iPhone to add songs to a playlist and control playback.
AirPlay now offers Spatial Audio, providing an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos when using AirPlay to stream audio from an iPhone or iPad to the HomePod.
Apple’s release notes:
Software version 18 introduces SharePlay so you can share control of your Apple Music playlist on iPhone or iPad and guests can contribute to what’s playing on HomePod. This update also includes bug fixes and stability improvements.
How to Update HomePod Software
Your HomePod or HomePod mini should update automatically, but you can also manually update your device by doing the following:
- Open the Home app.
- Tap on the icon that looks like three dots in the upper right corner.
- Tap on “Home Settings.”
- Scroll down to “Software Update.”
- Tap “Software Update” to see if there are any available updates.
- 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.
- A white spinning light appears on the top of HomePod while it’s updating. The update might take some time. Make sure that your HomePod stays plugged in while it’s updating.
