Submitted by Frank Macey on
AirPlay 2 promises to bring multi-room audio and stereo pairing to the Apple HomePod. Not only this, but owners of third-party speakers can enjoy benefits including Siri playback controls, better syncing between speakers, and a larger buffer for uninterrupted streaming. The iOS Home app can be used to manage multiple speakers from different manufacturers. So which wireless speakers will work with AirPlay 2?
Yes, the HomePod power cable can be disconnected, but this is not recommended by Apple.
It takes a large amount of force to remove the power cord from the back of a HomePod. Once removed, the plug can be replaced if it's not damaged, also by using a lot of pressure. Simply line up the pins in the bottom of the HomePod and press the cable back in.
Most of the functions offered by Amazon smart speakers, such as Alexa are not available on HomePod.
HomePod comes equipped with Apple's voice assistant Siri. There's no built-in Alexa unless you're using one of Amazon's competing smart speakers. This also means quick ordering from Amazon using Alexa will not work on HomePod.
No, apps cannot be installed on HomePod.
Even though HomePod runs its own version of iOS, Apple's smart speaker cannot run apps directly. The unit can be configured using the Home app on a paired iOS device, such as an iPhone.
Most of the functions accessible via HomePod can be invoked using "Hey Siri" and voicing a command.
Yes, HomePod can be used as a speakerphone when connected to an iPhone.
During a phone call, tap the "audio" button to change where the call is routed. Choose HomePod to send call audio through the speakerphone function. Once selected, the HomePod will play sound from the call and act as a microphone when speaking.
