Originally, tvOS 16.3 and the HomePod software 16.3 were supposed to be released together with iOS 16.3 and Co. After Apple withdrew the Apple TV update, the two software updates have now been released.
With HomePod software 16.3 - also known as audioOS - the temperature and humidity sensor of the HomePod mini is now activated. 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.
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. As for tvOS 16.3, bugs have been fixed, security has been improved, and support for the second generation HomePod has been added. Below you will find the update description in full. (Image: Apple)
update description
HomePod software version 16.3 includes support for new features on your HomePod. This update also includes bug fixes and stability improvements.
- Temperature and humidity measurements capture your indoor climate using HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod mini.
- Redesigned, more immersive ambient sounds can be added to scenes, automations, and alarms in the Home app.
- Using Find My, you can now ask Siri on HomePod where friends or family members are if they share their location with you.
- Recurring home automations can be easily configured via voice input.
- Siri's confirmation tone will now play to signal completed smart home requests for devices that are not visible to changes or are in other rooms.
- Audio tuning optimizes spoken content such as podcasts and achieves even greater clarity on the HomePod (1st and 2nd generation).
- On HomePod (1st generation), redesigned volume controls allow for finer adjustments at low volumes.
