HomePod update adds AirPlay 2 support and multi-room functionality
iOS 11.4 has just been released, and with it we’ve received a crucial piece of HomePod functionality with AirPlay 2.
The new version of the streaming technology finally turns the speaker into a true multi-room device, and also finally allows it to be paired together with a second speaker in stereo.
Related: iOS 11.4 features
Until now the HomePod has been limited to being used on its own, which is a shame when the Sonos One has been able to pair with another speaker since its launch.
Now, however, anyone with £700 to spend on two of Apple’s speakers can pair them together in stereo, which will be especially helpful if you’ve got an Apple TV that needs a boost in sound.
If you want to spread the music further afield throughout your house, then AirPlay 2 also brings support for multi-room audio. You can either sync up multiple compatible speakers, including the HomePod, to play the same song, or else you can coordinate a cacophony of different tunes from a single device.
Related: Apple HomePod
If you’ve been holding off on purchasing a HomePod because you’ve been waiting for this update then… here it is. That said, in our 3.5 star review we outlined a number of issues that the speaker has.
Its smart assistant, Siri, isn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer, and it’s an expensive piece of kit whichever way you look at it.
Has iOS 11.4 made you change your mind about buying a HomePod? Let us know your thoughts @TrustedReviews.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
