With iOS 26, Apple introduced several key new features for Apple Music. One of the most noticeable was AutoMix – a function that automatically crossfades music tracks. This made the music experience on the iPhone more dynamic and closer to what DJs typically do. With iOS 26.1, AutoMix has now been expanded: it also works via AirPlay. This means that, for the first time, seamless song transitions are possible when playing music through external speakers – such as HomePods or other AirPlay 2-compatible devices.
AutoMix is an automatic mixing function that seamlessly blends songs. Instead of abrupt track changes, it creates a continuous flow by fading in the next song while the previous one is still playing. Technically, AutoMix uses features like time stretching and beatmatching. This means the tempo is adjusted and the beats of the two songs are synchronized to create a cohesive and seamless mix.
This feature was introduced with iOS 26 and initially only worked locally – via AirPods, the iPhone's built-in speaker, or wired headphones. AutoMix was not available for users streaming music via AirPlay speakers like HomePods until then.
iOS 26.1 brings AutoMix via AirPlay
Since iOS 26.1, AutoMix is also active via AirPlay. The feature now works when streaming to AirPlay-enabled speakers. This closes the previous gap: Even those listening to music throughout their home via HomePods or other networked speakers now get the DJ-like transitions of Apple Music.
This is particularly relevant because HomePods themselves don't yet offer native support for AutoMix. While Apple introduced crossfade for the first time with HomePod software update 26, AutoMix itself remains tied to iOS. With iOS 26.1, the iPhone (or iPad) now takes over the mixing function and sends the finished signal to the speakers via AirPlay – including transition effects.
Known limitations and compatibility
AutoMix over AirPlay works with all devices that support iOS 26.1 and with speakers that use AirPlay 2. In certain situations, AutoMix is not applied—for example, if the network connection is too unstable or if a device lacks sufficient processing power. Apple points out these limitations in a support document and also explains in which playback contexts AutoMix is automatically disabled.
HomePods themselves do not perform the transitions, but merely pass on the mixed signal. For optimal results, the music must be played directly from an iPhone or iPad running iOS 26.1 and streamed via AirPlay.
Other new features in iOS 26.1 for Apple Music
In addition to the AutoMix enhancement, iOS 26.1 brings another small but practical feature to Apple Music: a new swipe gesture that allows for quick song switching. Simply swiping across the album art or the Now Playing area lets you skip the current track or return to the previous one. This gesture is especially useful for one-handed use and complements the app's traditional controls.
Apple Music receives meaningful enhancements
iOS 26.1 further expands the music features introduced with iOS 26. The ability to use AutoMix via AirPlay makes Apple Music more flexible and improves the listening experience, especially when using whole-home speaker systems. Combined with the new swipe gesture for track navigation, the update brings practical improvements for everyone who regularly listens to music on their iPhone—whether on the go or at home on Wi-Fi. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / DVKi)
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