Apple's latest iTunes release includes HomePod support

Following the release of macOS 10.13.3 and new versions of iOS, watchOS and tvOS, Apple on Tuesday issued the latest version of iTunes for Mac, with the updated media software boasting support for the upcoming HomePod.

In the brief release notes provided alongside iTunes 12.7.3, Apple touts compatibility with its forthcoming smart speaker, as well as user interface enhancements that should improve usability once the device sees release next month.

"iTunes is now designed to work with HomePod. Use the improved AirPlay menu to easily choose HomePod and control what plays next with your Apple Music subscription."

Apple includes a link to its dedicated HomePod webpage, which offers information about hardware specifications, design considerations, software compatibility and special features. Siri voice control and HomeKit integration are major selling points, but at least two hotly anticipated features, stereo sound with two HomePods and multi-room playback via AirPlay 2, will not be ready at launch.

Earlier today, Apple announced HomePod will be available for preorder on Friday ahead of a Feb. 9 sales debut.

The device was initially unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference last June with a promised ship date in December. Apple delayed launch in November, saying the Siri-powered speaker would ship in early 2018.

The latest version of iTunes can be downloaded through the Mac App Store.

3 Comments

fastasleep 6451 comments · 14 Years

About 6 years ago

Is there an update for 12.6.3 as well, or is it time to move on to Configurator 2 for rearranging iOS apps?

macseeker 541 comments · 8 Years

fastasleep said:

Is there an update for 12.6.3 as well, or is it time to move on to Configurator 2 for rearranging iOS apps?

Yeah, I’m beginning to see bugs in iTunes 12.6.3. Lately been getting a lot of crashes. Been sending the crash reports to Apple.

macseeker said:

fastasleep said:

Is there an update for 12.6.3 as well, or is it time to move on to Configurator 2 for rearranging iOS apps?

Yeah, I’m beginning to see bugs in iTunes 12.6.3. Lately been getting a lot of crashes. Been sending the crash reports to Apple.

I think I'm okay moving on, Configurator 2 does what remaining feature of 12.6.3 held onto for me, which is rearranging apps on home screens. It's no prize pig for that, but the iTunes implementation has *always* sucked terribly. That thing and other tools I think have most if not all the other features people were whining about as well, as far as sideloading ancient archived apps and managing their family's apps in the slowest way possible, etc. :)

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