It may have seemed like Apple had left HomePod and HomePod Mini behind in iOS 17, but that’s not the case. While the updates may not be headline-grabbing, there are some noteworthy enhancements to the user experience for those who have these smart speakers in their homes. Let’s explore what’s new.
Enhancements for Siri
One standout change in this update is the improvement in Siri’s functionality. Following the trend seen on other Apple platforms, you no longer need to say “hey” before summoning Siri. A simple “Siri,…” will suffice. This change not only makes Siri interactions faster but also more intuitive and natural. It’s worth noting that this feature is currently available only in English, but bilingual users or those proficient in the language can enjoy this feature by adjusting Siri’s language settings until Apple expands support to other languages.
This improved Siri feature extends to other Apple devices, including iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac. Moreover, you can now initiate an AirPlay session on your HomePod or HomePod Mini simply by asking your iPhone, streamlining the user experience.
Calling with HomePod
Another welcome improvement is the simplified way to mute a phone call on the HomePod. Prior to the iOS 17 update, muting a call was a bit cumbersome, but Apple has addressed this issue with a practical solution. During a call, you can easily mute the microphone by tapping the top of the HomePod. The green status light in the center will dim, indicating that the call is on mute. To resume the conversation, just tap the top of the HomePod again. When you’re ready to end the call, a double tap on the device’s top will do the trick. This feature has also been extended to AirPods Pro with the iOS 17 update.
HomePod with Apple TV: Sound Experience Enhancements
Among the most exciting features in this update is the enhanced integration of HomePod with Apple TV. You can now use a pair of HomePod Minis or full-size HomePods as speakers with your Apple TV set-top box, delivering a more immersive sound experience for your favorite movies and shows.
If you’re a HomePod user, it’s essential to remember that Apple often automatically sends updates to these devices. However, if you want to stay up to date with the latest improvements and features, you can manually check for updates by opening the Home app and selecting HomePod. Version 17 of the HomePod software is already available, and version 17.1 is on the horizon, so stay tuned for even more enhancements.