Even the first-generation HomePod has just a few hidden methods up its sleeve.
A restore specialist on YouTube specializing in HomePod and different Apple machine remediation has found that the debug port on the underside of first-gen HomePods may be tailored for use as a direct speaker for Mac.
YouTube creator “NicsFix” lately posted a video that includes a first-generation HomePod that had a useless Wi-Fi chip, rendering it unable for use on a Wi-Fi community. Whereas plugging in a customized cable he made to suit the debug port hidden inside the underside of the HomePod, he found that plugging the USB finish into his Mac made the HomePod seem as a USB speaker.
The take a look at HomePod’s different elements labored effective, however the Wi-Fi chip was unrepairable until one might supply a alternative. As a result of the USB connection appeared to permit the HomePod for use as a speaker, Nic experimented additional.
He discovered that Airfoil, an app made by Rogue Amoeba, may very well be used to pipe the identical Mac sound supply to a number of functioning AirPods together with the one linked by USB. Nic used a leftover speaker grill from one other disassembled HomePod for a makeshift stand that raised the HomePod up sufficiently in order that the debug port and cable on the underside weren’t obstructed.
The video focuses on the HomePod’s hidden USB audio skill for concerning the first 18 minutes of the two-hour video, and returns to the subject once more within the remaining 5 minutes. The center portion of the video offers with repairing a HomePod with energy points.
AirPlay permits a peer-to-peer possibility
Whereas Nic’s discovery takes benefit of a hidden skill within the HomePod, one other approach can turn out to be useful when the HomePod is in an surroundings the place Wi-Fi shouldn’t be obtainable. AirPlay additionally permits customers to make use of Peer-to-Peer to speak wirelessly with first-gen and later HomePods.
To do that, you’ll need to open the Residence app in your Mac, iPad, or iPhone. Faucet the Location arrow, faucet Enable Speaker Entry, and choose Everybody.
It will allow music streaming, nevertheless it does have drawbacks. Different HomePod options, equivalent to stereo pairing, Siri, timers, or the intercom operate, aren’t obtainable on Peer-to-Peer. It additionally signifies that anybody close by with an Apple machine can even “see” and add the HomePod to their machine.