HomePod software update 16.3 is here: what's new on all models

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Anyone with a HomePod can update it to the latest version, which is HomePod software update 16.3. In this version, Apple has put some new features and some of them are available on all models. So even the first generation from 2018!

Editors iCulture.nl – 24 January 2023, 19:12 whatsappfacebooktwittertelegramlinkedinmailprint

Apple regularly releases new updates for the HomePod speakers, usually at the same time as new updates to tvOS and iOS. Usually it's just some improvements behind the scenes, but occasionally there are also some new features and useful extras. The latter is now the case in HomePod software update 16.3. There is something new for every HomePod model, although we find the most useful improvements in the HomePod mini.

HomePod software update 16.3 available

The latest update finally activates the sensor for measuring temperature and humidity in the HomePod mini. Every HomePod mini is equipped with this, but Apple had never enabled it before. The reason for this is a mystery to us. The fact is that the sensor is also in the new second generation HomePod 2023 and is immediately active there and was presented as a new function. Apple could therefore not lag behind with the HomePod mini, since the necessary hardware was already there all along.

See also

The HomePod mini gets two new features

Apple's smallest speaker appears to have a hidden function. The HomePod mini has a sensor for measuring temperature and humidity. And the great thing is: Apple is now going to activate it with a software update! But Apple is going to add another function with a software update: sound measurement. for alarms and sirens, among other things.

But the update offers even more. The relaxing ambient sounds have been improved, there are new Find My functions and Siri also knows some new tricks. For the first-generation HomePod specifically, Apple has tweaked the volume. This means that at lower volumes you can now adjust the sound more accurately, making it louder or softer in smaller steps. You can read much more about all the new features in HomePod software update 16.3 in our article.

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These features are coming soon to the HomePod (also the first major HomePod)

In HomePod software update 16.3, a number of new features will be available for all HomePod models. For example, the first-generation HomePod gets a number of functions, such as updated soothing sounds, but the HomePod mini also gets some extra options, such as the new sensors.

Download HomePod Software Update 16.3

The download and installation of the update is automatic, but you can also force this yourself if you want the update immediately. Here's how:

  1. Open the Home app on your iPhone. Go to the Home tab.
  2. Tap the button with the three dots at the top right. Select Home settings and optionally select the home where the HomePod is located.
  3. Tap Software update.

  1. The app will now check for updates.
  2. You will now see the version number and size.
  3. Tap the Download and Install button to update the software.
  4. The HomePod update is now being installed.

Read more in our article about updating the HomePod.

See also

How to update the HomePod (mini) and update the software automatically

If you want to update your HomePod or HomePod mini, you can in two ways: manually or automatically. Which method is most convenient for you is a matter of personal preference. In this tip we explain how manually updating HomePod works and how you can enable and disable automatic updating.

Release Notes HomePodOS 16.3

Version 16.3 of the HomePod software includes support for new features for your HomePod. This update also includes bug fixes and stability improvements.

  • Temperature and humidity sensor measures your indoor climate with the HomePod (2nd generation) and the HomePod mini
  • Remastered and even more immersive ambient sounds can be can now be added to scenes, automations and alarms in the Home app
  • With Find My on HomePod, you can now ask Siri for the location of family and friends if they've shared their location with you
  • Repeating home automations can now be configured using just your voice
  • A Siri confirmation tone is now played to indicate that requests have been completed in your smart home for accessories that may not display a visible change or may be in a different room
  • Spoken content such as podcasts will be audio tuned optimized so it sounds even clearer on HomePod (2nd Gen) and HomePod (1st Gen)
  • Updated volume controls on HomePod (1st Gen) give you more fine-grained adjustments at lower volumes
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Note: keep the comments on-topic, concrete and clear for others. Personal status updates on whether your download started/successful add nothing to the discussion. It may also take a little longer before the update is visible. You do not have to report this either. These comments will be deleted.