GoKawiilApple audioOS 27 code hints at four-speaker HomePod surround system and Party Mode
Code strings found in audioOS 27 beta 8 by a MacRumors forum user reveal Apple is developing a quad-HomePod surround sound configuration alongside a new 'Party Mode' feature. The surround setup would let two front and two rear second-generation HomePods each apply distinct audio processing, dynamically adjusting based on content like movies or music. A separate reference to a 'Forklift' system suggests pairing two existing HomePods with unreleased speaker hardware.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
HomePod currently supports only a stereo pair, so a four-speaker surround mode would meaningfully expand its home theater ambitions and compete more directly with dedicated surround systems. Combined with Bloomberg's report of a new HomePod mini and a full-sized model in testing, this signals Apple may be preparing a broader refresh of its smart speaker lineup after years of stagnation.
- audioOS 27 beta code references a quad-HomePod surround sound system with distinct front and rear speaker processing.
- A 'Forklift' configuration pairs two current HomePods with unidentified new speaker hardware, hinting at unreleased products.
- Party Mode would shift audio to a wider, more ambient sound instead of a single optimal listening spot.
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Published there as: “Apple working on new surround sound, Party Mode features for HomePod”
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