How to update your HomePod mini and HomePod and … – Pocket-lint

Here’s how to update your Apple HomePod and HomePod mini and check what software version it’s running

Apple announced the 2nd generation Apple HomePod in January 2023, replacing the original model launched in 2018 before being discontinued in 2021.

The HomePod (2nd generation) sits alongside the HomePod mini, bringing a larger format, great sound and a new midnight color.

The original HomePod is no longer available but is still supported by feature updates – for now – and the mini HomePod also receives software updates to improve its performance and deliver new features.

To get the most out of your HomePod or HomePod mini, it’s worth making sure they’re running the latest version of software available. Software updates fix bugs and make sure your devices run smoothly, but every now and then, they also bring some key new features.

For example, with HomePod software version 16.3, a temperature and humidity sensor was introduced to measure the indoor climate of your HomePod (2nd generation) or HomePod mini. The software also brought remastered ambient sounds, Find My Support so you can ask Siri where your partner is (if they share a location with you) and you can ask Siri to set up repetitive home automation, such as turning on all the lights turn off at 10PM (if you have HomeKit compatible lights).

The software also updated the volume controls on the original HomePod to allow more granular adjustments at lower volumes, as well as audio tuning to optimize spoken content for better clarity on HomePod (1st and 2nd generation) . Meanwhile, a previous software update brought Matter compatibility to the HomePod mini, and the HomePod (2nd generation) shipped with the support, making both much more useful as a smart speaker.

How to update your HomePod and HomePod mini

So you see, updating your HomePod’s software is worth it, especially since it costs nothing. This is how you do it.

1. Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad
2. Tap on the circle in the upper right corner with the three dots
3. Click on Home Settings
4. Tap on Software Update
5. If you have an update available, it will appear here to download and install

How to check what software version your HomePod is running

To check what software version your HomePod is running, follow these steps.

1. Open the Home app
2. Tap the tile for the HomePod you want to check
3. Scroll down on the card up
4. Tap the settings cog in the bottom right corner
5. At the bottom of the following pop up, you will see ‘Version’ under Wi-Fi Network