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.
Yes, music services other than Apple Music can be played on HomePod with AirPlay.
The HomePod is fully integrated with Siri and Apple Music. Other streaming music services, such as Pandora, Spotify, Google Play Music and Tidal can be played over the HomePod using AirPlay. Unlike some other speakers, HomePod does not play music over a normal Bluetooth connection.
No, Apple HomePod requires an electrical outlet.
Despite photos of HomePod on Apple's official website, the device does have a power cord. The power cable is connected to the bottom of the HomePod and connects to a standard electrical outlet.
Apple has released the first-generation HomePod priced at $349.
The device is focused on high-quality sound reproduction, and offers Siri on board primarily to assist with delivering content from Apple Music. An Apple Music subscription is not required, however to use the service beyond the three-month trial it costs $9.99 per month.
Many HomePod owners are considering purchasing an AppleCare+ plan for HomePod. In addition to extending the Apple one-year warranty by an extra year, AppleCare+ offers two incidents of accidental damage for a repair fee of $39 each.
