### HomePod Software Update: Features and Enhancements
At Apple’s recent event, the spotlight on the HomePod series was minimal, leaving many fans eager for the expected announcement of the HomePod mini 2. Nonetheless, a software update scheduled for next week is set to upgrade the HomePod experience with two significant new features.
#### Software Version 26 Update
The forthcoming software version 26 brings enhancements designed to improve music playback and make WiFi management simpler within the Home app settings.
#### Apple Music Crossfade
A highlight of this update is the introduction of Crossfade for Apple Music on HomePod. This feature facilitates a smooth transition between tracks, where the conclusion of one song fades out while the next fades in, delivering an uninterrupted listening experience. Users can activate Crossfade by going to Home Settings in the Home app and setting the duration anywhere from 1 to 12 seconds. However, it’s important to note that the AutoMix feature is absent in this update, leaving users optimistic for its future addition.
#### Multi-Room Audio Enhancements
The second upgrade emphasizes multi-room audio features. HomePod users who own multiple devices can now experience synchronized music playback across various rooms. Previously, this capability was confined to Apple Music, but the updated version extends the voice command functionality to all AirPlay streams. For example, users can now instruct their HomePod to play music in different rooms while streaming from services like Spotify.
Here are several voice commands that can be employed for controlling multi-room audio:
– “Play music in the living room.”
– “Play music in the living room and the kitchen.”
– “Play music everywhere.”
– “Add the kitchen.” (when music is already active)
– “Play music from the kitchen here.” (when music is ongoing in another room)
– “Move music to the [other room].”
The HomePod software version 26 update will be accessible for both HomePod mini and the original HomePod, set to be released publicly on September 15, in conjunction with other Apple OS updates.
