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Users report some original HomePods 'bricking' with software version 14.6 update

HomePods are reportedly failing after the 14.6 software update

The release version 14.6 of HomePod's operating system is reportedly "bricking" some devices in certain configurations — especially when paired with an Apple TV.

The user reports follow similar issues being caused by the beta version 15.0 software. Only the original large HomePod is being affected, and usually when connected as an Apple TV stereo pair.

One Reddit user has more than 19 HomePods in their home, and seven of them have been bricked. The user says three are on the release version, and four are beta, but they all failed.

One 9to5Mac reader shared that their oldest speaker in a stereo pair failed after updating to 14.6. The HomePod was connected in stereo with another to an Apple TV for audio.

Another Reddit post said they experienced the same problem as the 9to5Mac reader. One of the speakers in the pair suddenly stopped working after updating to 14.6.

While these are only a few reports, there is a pattern falling out. Stereo pair HomePods, especially ones connected to the Apple TV, have at least one of the speakers brick after the update.

AppleInsider staff all report normal operations of their HomePods in various configurations. We haven't seen any problems with the HomePods themselves or bricking, though some report issues with tvOS 14.6 related to AirPlay.

The issue doesn't appear to be widespread and could be affecting older models in particular. AppleInsider will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as soon as any new information is discovered.

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