The best way to get the newest HomePod software program replace

Your HomePod is much more than a easy speaker — it’s a complete pc. And like all pc it has an working system that wants occasional updates.

Right here’s how to verify your Apple good speaker has the newest software program model. There’s a brand new model out that provides assist for the Matter home-automation commonplace, and also you don’t need to miss out.

A little bit of background on HomePod Software program

Apple gives macOS, iOS, tvOS and extra. You would possibly assume the working system for HomePod has an analogous identify, like perhaps homepodOS. Nope. It’s known as “HomePod Software program.”

It’s apparently a variation of Apple TV’s tvOS that’s been specifically modified for this good speaker. This is smart — each are centered on multimedia playback, assist Siri, and don’t have to fret about cellular-wireless connections.

And new HomePod Software program variations usually come out when Apple TV is up to date. iPhone and iPad updates are often launched on the similar time. And all the model numbers are in lockstep.

The best way to replace your HomePod’s software program

At present, your Apple good speaker needs to be on HomePod Software program Model 16.1. That is true whether or not you personal an unique HomePod or HomePod mini. The brand new model debuted on October 24, on the identical day as tvOS 16.1.

Apple’s launch notes point out this can be a important replace: “Software program model 16.1 provides assist for Matter, the brand new good dwelling connectivity commonplace that allows all kinds of good dwelling equipment to work collectively throughout ecosystems.” Matter just lately debuted and can allow equipment to assist Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google House.

It’s been just a few days because the HomePod replace grew to become out there, however don’t assume your system has already mechanically up to date. Apple waits to begin pushing OS updates out to customers for a shocking period of time. You could be positive your system has the newest model in only a few steps.

1. Open the House utility in your iPhone
2. Faucet on the button for the House tab within the decrease left nook of the display.
3. Faucet the menu button within the higher proper nook of the display, than choose House Settings from the ensuing pop-up window.
4. Scroll all the way down to Software program Replace and faucet on it.

To verify to see in case your system has mechanically up to date, faucet on Up to date Not too long ago and also you’ll get an outline of the final model launched.

However in case you aren‘t caught up, you’ll see an Replace Accessible message as an alternative. There’ll be an Replace All button subsequent to this. Press it to see what the brand new model is and begin the set up course of.

Set HomePod to (not) replace mechanically

By default, your good speaker is ready to mechanically set up the newest HomePod Software program. If you happen to don’t need to tinker with updating this system, you by no means have to consider it once more.

Simply remember that automated updates don’t begin instantly. Primarily based on private expertise, it may be just a few days after the software program launch earlier than your system will get the replace. If you happen to’re somebody who likes to make sure you’re operating the newest software program on all of your units, you may at all times go in and request a direct replace by following the steps above. One of the best time to verify is true after an tvOS or iOS replace will get launched.

Or there’s the precise reverse situation. In case you are glad together with your HomePod now and don’t need to take the possibility {that a} dangerous software program replace will muck it up, you may flip off automated updates. It’s straightforward.

1. Open the House utility in your iPhone
2. Faucet on the button for the House tab within the decrease left nook of the display.
3. Faucet the menu button within the higher proper nook of the display, then choose House Settings from the ensuing pop-up window.
4. Scroll all the way down to Software program Replace and faucet on it
5. Within the Automated Updates part of the display, toggle off the swap subsequent to HomePod.

You may also take into account doing this for Different Equipment which can be up to date from the House utility.

Simply don’t neglect you probably did this. By toggling off automated updates, you’ll by no means obtain one other one till you manually request it. You is perhaps shutting your self off from helpful options coming sooner or later.

Notice: This text was first revealed in February 2022, and is periodically up to date with new info.