Although Apple announced the second generation of HomePod on Wednesday, the original model isn't completely gone. The company has released the final beta version of HomePod software 16.3, which includes a handful of changes for the HomePod mini, the original HomePod, and even tweaks for the HomePod 2.
In the update description confirmed Apple announced that the HomePod mini's temperature and humidity sensor is now active. Apple had already confirmed this on its website. In addition, the update brings updated ambient sounds for all HomePod models as well as the ability to add these sounds to scenes, automations and alarms via the Home app.
- The updated ambient sounds are more realistic and can now be added to scenes, automations and alarms via the Home app.
HomePod software 16.3: New features for all three models
Other new features include:
- Find My on HomePod now lets you ask Siri for the location of friends and family if they've shared it with you.
- Recurring home automations can now be set up using voice.
- Siri now makes a confirmation sound when Smart Home queries are completed for accessories that are not visible or in another room.
- Audio Tuning optimizes spoken content such as podcasts for even greater clarity on HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod (1st generation).
- Updated volume controls on HomePod (1st generation) allow finer adjustments at lower volumes.
These are some very nice new features, especially the improvements for the first generation HomePod. HomePod software version 16.3 will be available to everyone next week. The new second generation HomePod is expected to hit the market on February 3rd. (Image: Apple)
