The HomePod 18.2 software update is now available.
Apple Homepod
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Apple recently rolled out software updates to all its major devices, adding new features and capabilities.
For example, your iPhone lets you set new default apps and add a volume slider to your lock screen. Apple Watch’s Camera Remote app got a simple but useful new feature. The Mac supports more Apple Intelligence features. And the Photos app got a major update for iPhone, iPad and Mac.
As for Apple’s smart speakers, the HomePod and HomePod mini, they’ve gotten their first meaningful software update of the year. And yes, it provided a valuable new feature.
With the latest update, Siri now supports “natural language search” when listening to Apple Music. -Credit: Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol
A more understanding Siri
If you have a HomePod or a HomePod mini, you’re probably also subscribed to Apple Music, as it’s the music streaming service that works best with “Hey Siri” voice commands. And thanks to the latest update, it just got even better.
The HomePod 18.2 software update – available now – brings Siri support for “natural language search” when listening to Apple Music. According to Apple, you can “describe what you want to hear using any combination of categories such as genre, mood, decade, or activity.”
So instead of asking for specific songs or artists to play, you can use the “Hey Siri” commands to play “sad songs from the 90s” or “songs about the beach” or “songs by artists who look like Eminem.” to request.
In short: it makes Siri on the HomePod just a little more understanding.
The second-generation HomePod is available in two finishes: Midnight (shown) or white. -Credit: Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol
How to update?
Your HomePod should update itself automatically, as long as your iPhone (or iPad) also has the latest software (iOS 18.2 or iPadOS 18.2). That said, you can update it manually. Here’s how:
Both current HomePods that Apple sells, the HomePod (2nd generation) and HomePod mini, support the latest software update – it’s available now.
Apple homepod 2nd generation
Apple HomePod (2nd generation)
Specifications
