In addition to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, Apple today also released the new HomePod Software 18, designed specifically for the HomePod and HomePod mini.

The ‌HomePod‌ Software 18 adds the option to choose a Home Hub instead of HomeKit automatically selecting one, a handy feature for those with multiple HomePods and Apple TV models.

There’s a new SharePlay feature, which lets multiple people share control over what’s playing on a ‌HomePod‌ via Apple Music. To use the feature, bring an iPhone close to another ‌iPhone‌ to add songs to a playlist and control playback.

AirPlay now supports Spatial Audio, delivering an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos when you use ‌AirPlay‌ to stream audio from an ‌iPhone‌ or iPad to the ‌HomePod‌. Apple’s release notes:

Software version 18 introduces SharePlay, so you can share control of your Apple Music playlist on iPhone or iPad, and guests can contribute to what’s playing on HomePod. This update also includes bug fixes and stability improvements.

The HomePod software will be installed on the HomePod automatically unless the feature is disabled, but the HomePod can also be updated manually in the Home app by tapping the More button, selecting Home Settings, and then selecting the Software Update option.

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