Apple releases its first HomePod software update, but no AirPlay 2 or pairing
Malcolm Owen
Apple has issued a software update to the HomePod alongside updates for iOS 11.3, tvOS 11.3, and watchOS 4.3, bringing the firmware for the smart speaker up to version 11.3, with today's release also marking the first update of the audio device's software since it shipped.
Previously running on HomePod version 11.2.5, the update brings the HomePod's software to the same numerical version as both releases to tvOS and iOS. Since its availability in February, the device has not needed to receive an update, but Apple did include a mechanism to update the software from launch.
The update, bearing build number 15E217, weighs in at 2.36 gigabytes, but it is unclear what changes are made or new features are being added, if any. The release notes briefly state it includes "general improvements for stability and quality."
One of the changes expected to arrive is AirPlay 2, but the lack of the updated communications protocol in iOS 11.3 puts its existence on HomePod in doubt. AirPlay 2's main improvement is support for streaming audio to multiple devices simultaneously, such as HomePods and Apple TVs, as well as incorporating AirPlay 2-supporting speakers into HomeKit.
AirPlay 2 did make an appearance in the first two iOS 11.3 betas, but subsequently disappeared for reasons unknown.
The HomePod is capable of performing updates automatically, but it is also possible to manually trigger it to go through the update process.
After updating an iOS device to 11.3, users need to enter the Home app, tap the location icon in the top left, then tap Software Update. Selecting the following Install button will install the update on all HomePod speakers set up on the network at the same time.
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24 Comments
Interestingly there are two places where you can see the version of the software for the HomePod one locationIs in the HomeKit app and the details for the HomePodThe other is under settings iCloud settings which then list all Apple devices in that location my HomePod are still reporting the previous version number this may just be a bug that seems odd that they’re reporting different numbers
2.3gb update for stability and quality improvements? That is a pretty big file so has to be more to it? No?
I sure hope this fixes Siri's "hard of hearing" issue I experienced with my original HomePod and with the replacement I bought after returning the original. Apple support couldn't figure out the problem, which is why they offered a refund.
On both HomePods, Siri will gradually become hard of hearing to the point I have to yell at the device at close range in order for it to hear me. Unplugging the HomePod and plugging it back in completely resolves the issue...for a couple of hours to a couple of days until it happens again.