iOS 16 is finally available to registered users in Apple’s beta program along with iPadOS 16, watchOS 9, tvOS 16, and macOS Ventura. However, for the first time, Apple has also made the HomePod Software 16 beta available to users. Read on as we detail how to install the HomePod Software 16 public beta on your HomePod.
Previously, the only way to install beta software on your HomePod was by invitation through the AppleSeed program, which is quite limited compared to the public beta program. Even the developers didn’t have access to the HomePod beta software.
Starting today, HomePod Software 16 Beta is available to public beta users for the first time, which means anyone can install the beta software on their HomePod. However, there is one catch.
The HomePod Software 16 public beta is only available for HomePod mini. Owners of the original HomePod released in 2018 cannot install the latest beta, at least not officially. That doesn’t mean the original HomePod won’t get an update later this year, as a beta update for the original model is available through the AppleSeed program.
Apple hasn’t disclosed why the public beta is only available for HomePod mini, but we’re guessing it’s because the original HomePod can’t be connected to a Mac to restore the firmware. On the other hand, HomePod mini has a USB-C port, so users can restore firmware via Mac.
How to Install HomePod Software 16 Public Beta
Keep in mind that in order to install the HomePod Software 16 beta on your HomePod mini, your iPhone or iPad must be running iOS 16 or iPadOS 16. If you haven’t installed the latest beta software on your iOS device yet, check out our guide . Learn how to install the iOS 16 or iPadOS 16 public beta.
If you already have the latest iOS 16 beta installed on your iPhone or iPad, you just need to follow the steps below to get the HomePod Software 16 beta update on your HomePod:
Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad. Click the “…” button in the upper right corner of the screen. Tap “Main Settings”. Select the Software Update option. Navigate to the HomePod Beta Updates menu. Turn on the toggles for the HomePods you want to install the beta software on.
The Home app will then show you the latest beta update available for your HomePod mini.
What’s new in the update?
Unfortunately, there are no release notes on what’s new in HomePod Software 16. With iOS 16 and tvOS 16, Apple has finally implemented a new “Matter” protocol for home automation devices, so it’s likely that HomePod Software 16 will add support for Matter. to HomePod.
Last month, Apple announced that the iPad would no longer be used as a HomeKit hub for users with Matter-enabled accessories. Now the only options for a HomeKit hub will be an Apple TV or HomePod with the latest software.
HomePod Software 16 will be available to all HomePod users this fall.
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