HomePod: New functions from fall with iOS 26 & Co.
Alongside the regular operating systems, Apple also improves firmware for the HomePod series. There are helpful new functions combined with other devices.
Apple TV 4K with HomePod mini.
(Image: Apple)
Not only the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch are getting new functions with Apple's revised operating systems, the smart speakers in the HomePod range are also getting additional features. Apple will probably release HomePod OS 26 aka HomePod Software 26 in September. The first public beta is expected in July, according to Apple's public beta website. Developers can already test it.
Better party thanks to Crossfade
Like the previous version, HomePod OS 26 will be available for all HomePod models – i.e., HomePod 1, HomePod 2 and HomePod mini – and will work closely with the other operating systems as usual. This means that the new features may also require an iPhone or Mac with the latest operating system (here: iOS 26 and macOS 26 Tahoe).
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So far, it is known that the HomePods will receive the new DJ function from Apple Music – at least in part. Instead of a fully fledged, AI-based “AutoMix”, the crossfade feature already available in iOS 18 will land on the smart speakers for the first time, as leakers on X have discovered. This allows tracks to be seamlessly crossfaded into one another, which is a particularly useful function at parties. If you use Apple Music on an iPhone with iOS 26, for example, you can also simply use its AutoMix function, which works much more precisely and is adapted to the respective songs.
WLAN and new Home device
Another new HomePod OS function concerns the Wi-Fi settings. Currently, these can only be configured to a very limited extent: the HomePod usually takes over the network to which the configuration device (e.g., an iPhone) is connected. You only receive a warning if this is later located in a different network (such as a guest network) and can then switch the HomePod to this.
With HomePod OS 26, Apple now allows you to set the network directly; there is a separate “Wi-Fi Network Selector” screen. This gives you more control over the Wi-Fi used for the first time. It remains unclear whether there will also be improved HomeKit functions. Apple did not provide any new information on this at WWDC 2026. It is conceivable that the company is waiting for the presentation of a new Home device, which will hopefully be released in the fall.
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