HomePod Software program replace: Learn how to get newest model (18.6)

The HomePod working system sometimes wants updating, as a result of the machine is much more than a easy speaker — it’s a pc. Right here’s how to ensure your Apple good speaker has the software program model launched Monday. The brand new HomePod Software program model 18.6 is a straightforward bug-fix replace. But it surely’s nonetheless price putting in … who needs bugs?

For those who rely on computerized updates, it’s doable your good speaker hasn’t but put in the replace. Right here’s how to take action manually.

A little bit of background on HomePod Software program updates

Apple presents macOS, iOS, tvOS and extra. You would possibly suppose the working system for HomePod would have an identical title. Internally, Apple workers name it audioOS, however that title is rarely used publicly. For everybody else, it’s merely “HomePod Software program.”

It’s apparently a variation of Apple TV’s tvOS that’s been specifically modified for the good speaker. This is smart — each are centered on multimedia playback, assist Siri, and don’t have to fret about cellular-wireless connections.

New HomePod Software program variations come out when Apple updates the Apple TV software program. And the model numbers are typically in lockstep. With tvOS 18.6 launching on July 29, it’s additionally time for a HomePod replace.

What’s new in HomePod Software program 18.6

To be present, your Apple good speaker needs to be on HomePod Software program Model 18.6. That is true whether or not you personal an authentic HomePod, HomePod 2 or HomePod mini. The earlier model, 18.5, got here out in Could.

Apple’s launch notes describe adjustments (similar to they’re): “This replace consists of efficiency and stability enhancements.”

Whereas not each replace brings new options, clearly, it’s useful to maintain your HomePod and iPhone on the identical model numbers.

Learn how to replace your HomePod’s software program

You have got the choice to attend for the HomePod to robotically replace itself. Nevertheless, Apple waits a surprisingly very long time to start out pushing new variations out to customers. You will be certain your machine has the newest model in only a few steps.

1. Open the Dwelling software in your iPhone
2. Faucet on the button for the Dwelling tab within the decrease left nook of the display screen.
3. Faucet the menu button within the higher proper nook of the display screen, then choose Dwelling Settings from the ensuing pop-up window.
4. Scroll right down to Software program Replace and faucet on it.

To see in case your machine robotically up to date, faucet on Up to date Just lately and also you’ll see an outline of the final model launched.

However in the event you aren‘t caught up, you’ll see an Replace Accessible message as a substitute. There’ll be an Replace All button subsequent to this. Press it to see what the brand new model is and begin the set up course of.

If there’s a brand new model out however the Dwelling app doesn’t present it, it’s essential to reboot your HomePod. Do that the old school approach: unplug it then plug it again in. Wait a couple of minutes for the reboot, then look once more for the replace.

You possibly can set it to occur robotically

By default, your good speaker is about to robotically set up the newest HomePod Software program. For those who don’t wish to tinker with updating your HomePod’s software program, you by no means want to consider it once more.

Simply bear in mind that computerized updates don’t begin instantly. Based mostly on private expertise, it may take a per week or extra after the software program launch earlier than your machine will get the replace. For those who’re somebody who likes to make sure you’re operating the newest software program on all of your gadgets, you may all the time go in and request a right away replace by following the steps above. The perfect time to test is correct after each tvOS replace will get launched.

Learn how to flip off computerized updates

Or there’s the precise reverse state of affairs. In case you are completely happy along with your HomePod now and don’t wish to take the possibility {that a} unhealthy software program replace will muck it up, you may flip off computerized updates. It’s straightforward.

1. Open the Dwelling software in your iPhone
2. Faucet on the button for the Dwelling tab within the decrease left nook of the display screen.
3. Faucet the menu button within the higher proper nook of the display screen, then choose Dwelling Settings from the ensuing pop-up window.
4. Scroll right down to Software program Replace and faucet on it
5. Within the Automated Updates part of the display screen, toggle off the swap subsequent to HomePod.

You may additionally take into account doing this for different equipment up to date from the Dwelling app.

Simply don’t neglect you probably did this. By toggling off computerized updates, you’ll by no means obtain one other one till you manually request it. You would possibly shut your self off from helpful options coming sooner or later.

We initially revealed this text in February 2022. We replace it periodically with new details about the newest HomePod software program updates.