HomePod Software 14
HomePod Software 14 compatible devices
| Device Name | SOC | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| HomePod mini | S5 | 2020-11-16 |
| HomePod (1st generation) | A8 | 2018-02-09 |
Exploring HomePod Software 14: What's New and Exciting?
HomePod Software 14, released in 2020, introduced several new features and enhancements aimed at improving the functionality and user experience of Apple's HomePod and HomePod mini.
Intercom
One of the standout features in HomePod Software 14 is the Intercom functionality. This feature allows users to send voice messages from one HomePod to another, as well as to other Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and even CarPlay. This makes it easier to communicate within a household, sending quick messages like "Dinner is ready" or "Can you help with something?"
Home Theater with Apple TV 4K
HomePod Software 14 also enhanced the HomePod's integration with Apple TV 4K. Users can now use HomePod or a pair of HomePods as the default speakers for their Apple TV 4K, providing a richer, more immersive audio experience with support for surround sound and Dolby Atmos.
New Siri Features
The update included several new Siri capabilities, enhancing its functionality:
- Personal Update: Users can ask Siri "What’s my update?" to hear a snapshot of their day, including news, weather, traffic, reminders, and calendar appointments.
- Web Search: Siri can perform web searches and send results directly to your iPhone.
- Voice Recognition: Siri on HomePod can now recognize different voices for personalized responses for each family member.
Ambient Sounds
HomePod Software 14 introduced remastered ambient sounds that can be added to scenes, automations, and alarms in the Home app. These sounds, such as rain, ocean, and white noise, help create a calming environment.
HomeKit Enhancements
The update brought improvements to HomeKit integration, including the ability to control smart home devices at specific times using Siri, like turning off the lights in 10 minutes. This made managing smart home devices more flexible and user-friendly.
Audio Tuning
HomePod Software 14 included audio tuning improvements to optimize spoken content, such as podcasts, for greater clarity. This ensures that the HomePod delivers clear and crisp audio, especially for voice content.
These updates in HomePod Software 14 significantly enhanced the capabilities of the HomePod and HomePod mini, making them more versatile and integral parts of the smart home ecosystem.