Apple has released HomePod Software 18, introducing several new features and improvements.
Today is official iOS 18 rollout day! iPhone users can officially put homescreen icons wherever they want now. Huge.
Here's everything you need to know in video form: https://t.co/piyUE9Qf9d pic.twitter.com/Zn7AidE4Az
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) September 16, 2024
One notable addition is the ability to manually choose a Home Hub, which is especially useful for users with multiple HomePods. SharePlay is another key feature in this update.
It allows multiple people to share control of what’s playing on a HomePod. Users can add songs to a playlist and control playback by bringing their iPhone close to another iPhone.
HomePod enhancement with SharePlay
iOS 18 is here!
You don’t need to figure out how to use the new flashlight, text effects and home screen app icon tricks on your own. I’m here for you with the annual tradition…
18 TIPS FOR IOS 18! Only the skilled and the strong can do this kind of work.
VIDEO:… pic.twitter.com/2d4p53Sec4
— Joanna Stern (@JoannaStern) September 16, 2024
Along with iOS 18, Apple also released
iPadOS 18
macOS 15
tvOS 18
HomePodOS 18
watchOS 11
visionOS 2
iOS 17.7
iPadOS 17.7 pic.twitter.com/cYAxhNv0fq
— Aaron Zollo (@zollotech) September 16, 2024
The update also brings support for Spatial Audio, providing an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos when using AirPlay to stream audio from an iPhone to the HomePod. Apple’s release notes state: “Software version 18 introduces SharePlay so you can share control of your Apple Music playlist on iPhone or iPad, and guests can contribute to what’s playing on HomePod. This update also includes bug fixes and stability improvements.”
HomePod software is installed automatically unless the feature is disabled.
Just an FYI. If you are on iOS 18 RC, you already have the final version. iOS 18 RC and iOS 18 Public Release today are identical, you just had it early. pic.twitter.com/BuLoW0C4nN
— Aaron Zollo (@zollotech) September 16, 2024
Users can manually update their HomePods in the Home app by tapping on the More button, choosing Home Settings, and selecting the Software Update option. This update is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance the HomePod experience, combining the best audio and smart home capabilities.
