In only a few days, Apple will unveil its slate of latest software program at WWDC, and when it will get to the HomePod part, homeowners of the unique mannequin will get a pleasant shock: any new options Apple proclaims will probably be supported.
In response to a non-public account on X noticed by MacRumors, Apple will assist each HomePod fashions with HomePod Software program 26. The unique HomePod was introduced at WWDC on June 5, 2017, however didn’t ship till the next February. Nevertheless, that’s nonetheless eight full years of assist.
Whereas the authentic HomePod was discontinued in March 2021, it’s not all that totally different from the 2nd-gen mannequin that arrived in January 2023. The design and sound are very comparable regardless of the older mannequin having two additional tweeters, and so they have most of the identical options.
The principle distinction is the processor. The unique mannequin has an A8 from the iPhone 6, whereas the 2nd-gen mannequin is powered by the S7 chip within the Apple Watch Sequence 7. Notably, Apple ended assist for the iPhone 6 with iOS 12, which was launched in 2018. Nevertheless, HomePod software program is far much less processor-dependent than iOS.
There haven’t been any rumors about new HomePod options, however Apple is rumored to be engaged on a brand new HomePod with a show that acts as a sensible house hub. Apple may additionally deliver some Apple Intelligence options to the HomePod speaker when utilizing an iPhone.
Apple will announce HomePod Software program 26 on the WWDC keynote on Monday at 10 a.m. PT.
