Apple announced the second generation Apple HomePod in January 2023, replacing the original model launched in 2018 (before it was discontinued in 2021). HomePod (2nd generation) is now available alongside the smaller HomePod mini, which delivers bigger size, great sound, and a stunning new color (Midnight). This guide will help you update your HomePod and HomePod mini.

The original HomePod is no longer available but is still supported by feature updates at this time. Apple hasn’t announced an end date for its updates, and the HomePod mini is also getting software updates to improve its performance and introduce new features.

To get the most out of your HomePod or HomePod mini, make sure they are running the latest software version available. Software updates fix bugs and ensure the smooth running of your devices, and sometimes bring major new features.

Benefits of Update HomePod and HomePod Mini

For example, with HomePod version 16.3, a temperature and humidity sensor was introduced to measure the indoor climate used by the HomePod (2nd generation) or HomePod mini. Additionally, the update contains the following new features:

  • Redesigned ambient sounds are more inclusive and can now be added to scenes, automated commands, and alarms in the Home app.
  • Find My on HomePod now lets you ask Siri to locate friends and family if they share it with you.
  • Recurring home automations can be set up using just your voice.
  • Siri will now play a confirmation tone to indicate when smart home requests are complete for accessories that may not visibly change or are in a different room.
  • Audio Adjustment enhances spoken content like podcasts for more clarity on HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod (1st generation).
  • The volume controls on HomePod (1st generation) give you more precise adjustments and sounds at lower volume levels.

How to Update HomePod and HomePod Mini

You can wait for the HomePod to update itself automatically, but Apple takes a long time to start rolling out new versions to users. You can make sure that your device has the latest version in just a few steps. So, it’s worth updating the HomePod, especially since it’s free. Here’s how to update your HomePod and HomePod mini:

  1. Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Click on the circle in the upper right corner with the three dots.
  3. Click Home Settings.
  4. Click on System Update.
  5. If an update is available, it will appear here for download and installation.

How to Find Out the Current HomePod System Version

To check which software version your HomePod is running, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Home app.
  2. Tap on the tag for the HomePod you want to check.
  3. Scroll down on the pop-up card.
  4. Click on the settings icon in the lower right corner.
  5. At the bottom of the next pop-up, you’ll see “Version” under Wi-Fi.

By default, the smart speaker is set to automatically install the latest HomePod software. If you don’t want to mess with updating this device, you can set HomePod not to update automatically.

How to Set HomePod Not to Update Automatically

Just be aware that automatic updates do not start immediately, and it may take a few weeks or months after the software is released before your device gets the update. If you like to make sure you are running the latest software on all your devices, you can always go in and request an instant update by following the above steps. The best time to check is right after a tvOS or iOS update is released.