Apple releases its first HomePod software update, but no AirPlay 2 or pairing
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.
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.
Comments
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.
Have you heard anything about this update changing the sound profile of the HomePod? Thread is starting to fill up on MR with people stating this update lessens the bass and makes the mids more prominent. Several people have done comparisons and it appears to be the case. Anecdotal I know. If true, people should probably know before updating. Some like the way the HomePod sounds right now.
http://studiosixdigital.com/audiotools-modules-2/acoustic-analysis-modules/rta/ http://studiosixdigital.com/audiotools-modules-2/acoustic-analysis-modules/fft/
This version improves on that a bit, likely through better room analysis sensing, though there is still work to be done. Obviously, AirFoil is the imperfect solution as Airplay 2 will have the appropriate processing (one hopes) to properly deal with imaging for a stereo pair - sound needs to be focused more out of the "front" of each Homepod, but their circular design mandates that the HomePod "figures out" what is the "front" of each speaker, meaning it needs to know where one is listening from
Apple will have change the manner in which the drivers work for stereo imaging. Perhaps we will use the + - symbols for alignment?
Does the HomePod now support a wider array of Internet radio streams?
I wonder if one of them will be Sonos.
It's looking like they may as well do it. I know i'm waiting for Sonos and Bose but i'm also interested in what AVR will support AP2 so that I can make the
purchase that's going to integrate nicely.