Apple released software update 14.3 for the HomePod and HomePod mini earlier this month, and it has been discovered that the update provides the HomePod mini the ability to be powered by certain 18W chargers.
As reported by The 8-Bit, a Reddit thread indicates that users will now be able to use the 18W adapter that shipped with the iPhone 11 to power their HomePod minis. However, at the time of this article, Apple’s HomePod mini support page has not yet been updated to include this information.
In addition to Apple’s own 18W USB-C power adapter, select third-party 18W power adapters from brands like Aukey are also reported to be compatible. One user was even able to power the HomePod mini with an 18W battery pack from Cygnett, making the smart speaker ready for portable use.
Before the 14.3 update, attempting to use the HomePod mini with a sub-20W power adapter resulted in the HomePod mini displaying an orange light and inability to function. Attempting to use some 18W power adapters may still result in an orange light, so your mileage may vary.
To check your HomePod mini to see if it has the 14.3 software update installed, open the Home app on an iPhone, tap on the house icon in the top-left corner, tap on Home Settings, and tap on Software Update. HomePod software updates install automatically by default, but the feature can be turned off.
To manually update your device, do the following:
- Open the Home app.
- Tap on the home icon, which can be found in the upper left corner of the app display.
- 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.
- Tap your desired home.
- Scroll down to “Software Update.”
- 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.
