HomePod Software 26 may not bring as many new features as other platforms, mostly because there’s no screen to interact with but it still packs some notable additions like Crossfade for Apple Music and support for Threads 1.4. Let’s take a look at everything new in this update.
Which HomePods Support HomePod Software 26?
The original HomePod, released 7 years ago, can still update to HomePod Software 26. Here’s the full list:
- HomePod (1st generation) (2018)
- HomePod (2nd generation) (2023)
- HomePod mini (2020)
How to update to HomePod Software 26
HomePod Software 26 is now available as a beta for users enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program (also known as the Public Beta). You can sign up with your Apple account and enable beta software updates for your HomePod to receive the update.
There’s a detailed guide you can follow here: How to install HomePod Software 26 Beta →
What’s new in HomePod Software 26?
Crossfade for Apple Music
Crossfade was added to Apple Music on iPhone and iPad starting with iOS 17, but HomePod has been missing this feature until now.
The Crossfade option on HomePod is a bit hidden in menus, but you can enable it as follows:
- Open the Home app, go to Home Settings (Tap the three-dot icon •••).
- Tap your name (the owner), then tap Apple Music.
- Turn on Crossfade and use the slider to set how many seconds (1 to 12) you want the fade to last between songs.
Although iOS 26’s Apple Music now includes AutoMix for even smoother transitions (see demo here), the HomePod only gets Crossfade for now.
Change HomePod Wi-Fi Network
While HomePod can automatically connect to the same network as your iPhone or iPad, HomePod Software 26 now lets you manually select a different Wi-Fi network for your HomePod.
To change your HomePod’s Wi-Fi:
- Long press on your HomePod in the Home app and choose Accessory Settings.
- Scroll to the bottom and tap the Wi-Fi network.
- Here, you can select a Wi-Fi network to connect to. Note that only Wi-Fi networks your iPhone has previously connected to and are nearby will appear.
“Last seen” Info for Accessories
Some accessories now show information about the last time they were seen before going offline or becoming No Response.
Thread 1.4 Support
Just like tvOS 26, HomePod Software 26 includes support for Thread 1.4, improving connectivity and stability for compatible smart home accessories.
Thread 1.4, introduced in September 2024, aims to unify all your smart home devices into a single mesh network. Previously, if you had multiple Apple TVs or HomePods, they could create separate Thread networks, which sometimes caused connectivity issues. With Thread 1.4, your devices can now work more seamlessly together across one unified network.
That’s it! Have you updated to HomePod Software 26 yet? Did you notice anything new in this update? Feel free to share in the comments below!