Apple has released HomePod version 26, the latest software update for HomePod and HomePod mini. Here’s what’s new.
Today Apple launched iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, among a variety of other new OS versions.
Although HomePod version 26 contains far fewer updates and new features, it does offer three improvements.
Crossfade for Apple Music AirPlay improvements Wi-Fi network switching
Crossfade in Apple Music has been available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac for years. But the HomePod never supported the feature.
Now, while iOS 26 is gaining a new AutoMix feature in Apple Music, HomePod at least catches up a little bit by adding Crossfade.
Per Apple’s release notes:
Crossfade on HomePod smoothly transitions between songs by fading out the currently playing song while fading in the next so the music never stops.
If you use AirPlay often with your HomePod, there’s also a new improvement to how Siri can control AirPlay content.
When using AirPlay to play audio on HomePod, you can now ask Siri on HomePod to play to another HomePod speaker in your home.
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