The public can download beta versions of iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS from Apple. On the other hand, HomePod software updates are only accessible to a restricted group of testers who have received an invitation.
That is about to change, though, as Apple said that it will make the HomePod 16 software accessible to public beta testers with the most recent round of betas, as we reported two weeks ago.
And finally, a beta version of the HomePod software will be made accessible. The iOS 16 beta 2 update, which Apple released to developers on Wednesday, includes a new menu for controlling the Home app's HomePod beta software in addition to other system improvements.
Menu on HomePod Beta Software
According to a report by 9to5Mac, when a user installs a HomePod beta profile, the menu is enabled by default but hidden otherwise. This makes it simple for users to select which of their HomePod will get beta software updates.
You only need to turn on the corresponding toggle for each HomePod in order to select which speakers will receive beta software. It should then receive the beta update. The HomePod won't receive beta upgrades if the toggle is turned off.
Apple Beta Software Program
9to5Mac mentioned that the new menu is available ahead of additional betas that will be added to the Apple Beta Software Program in July, including the first HomePod Software Beta. As we have previously mentioned, Apple said that it will make the HomePod 16 software accessible to public beta testers with the most recent round of betas. However, being invited through the AppleSeed program is currently the only option to install beta software on a HomePod. HomePod Software 16 beta cannot currently be installed by anyone, not even developers.
It is unknown, at least for now, if Apple will open the HomePod Software beta outside the AppleSeed program.
Interestingly, according to 9to5Mac, the new beta menu only supports HomePod mini devices. This means that the original HomePod won't support the HomePod Software's public beta. This may be due to the fact that, in the event that there are any issues with the update, the original HomePod cannot be restored on a Mac.
Rumors on New HomePod
The tech giant is apparently working on a new HomePod model that will likely be unveiled between the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, according to 9to5Mac.
According to a prior report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple has been experimenting with integrating the Apple TV and HomePod into a single product. But it appears that this product is not yet ready for the market. A larger HomePod model may also be making a comeback, according to the rumors.
The new HomePod's specs are currently unknown, but analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that there will be a slight improvement over the current HomePod mini.
