Apple Inviting Some Users to Beta Test New HomePod Software
Apple is inviting some AppleSeed members to test the new HomePod software as well as the new versions of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, according to reports on the MacRumors forums.
Those invited to test the new HomePod software will be able to try out new features ahead of release. With the update, the HomePod is gaining support for third-party music services for the first time, a feature that will allow the speaker to work with Spotify, Pandora, and other music options by default without the need to use AirPlay.
HomePod, which serves as a home hub option for HomeKit, is also getting a new feature that will let it announce when a HomeKit-connected doorbell has been rung.
Apple's HomePod software is usually tested internally and is not typically provided to developers, so we'll need to wait to see if a version is eventually added to the developer site or distributed to public beta testers. If not, most users will need to wait until the new software is released in the fall to try it out.
Popular Stories
Wednesday September 23, 2026 10:04 am PDT by
Juli CloverApple's smarter, more capable version of Siri is expanding to the HomePod, according to details found by code sleuth pdfu. According to pdfu, HomePod Software 27 includes the system behind Siri AI, called "Linwood," along with new status lights in the Siri AI colors.
Since HomePod Software 27 is out and Siri AI isn't available on existing HomePods, it's possible support will be limited to...
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman today briefly mentioned that "Apple aims to eventually update its larger HomePod," assuring that the company remains committed to the full-sized speaker, which was discontinued in 2021 and reintroduced in 2023.
The report said a new HomePod mini, new Apple TV 4K, and an all-new Apple smart home hub will all be announced on Tuesday, October 13, but it sounds like a new ...
Alongside iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS Golden Gate, Apple today released new software for the HomePod and HomePod mini.
HomePod Software 27 adds AirPlay improvements and support for AutoMix when listening to Apple Music.
This update introduces support for AutoMix with Apple Music, which transitions between songs like a DJ does, time stretching and beatmatching to deliver a continuous...
