Immersive Audio Experience: Quad HomePod Surround Sound Unveiled in Latest audioOS 27 Update

After a tumultuous journey spanning eight years, Apple’s full-sized HomePod appears to be in line for some much-needed attention. Recent discoveries in the latest beta of “audioOS” 27, also known as “HomePod Software,” hint at potential new home theater features for the smart speakers. Among these features is the ability to group four HomePods to create a fully immersive surround sound experience.

Details uncovered in the MacRumors forums by a user named “pdfu” suggest a comprehensive setup with front-left, front-right, rear-left, and rear-right speakers, along with features like automatic room calibration, bass management, EQ adjustments, and specialized modes for movies and music. Notably, a new tuning system dubbed “Forklift” is mentioned, indicating a combination of two second-generation HomePods with two undisclosed speakers, potentially hinting at upcoming products from Apple.

The HomePod’s Unusual Journey

This development addresses a long-standing request from Apple TV enthusiasts. About six years ago, Apple introduced Home Theater Audio to the full-sized HomePod, enabling users to create a Dolby Atmos surround system with a pair of these smart speakers. Prior to this update in HomePod Software 14, users could only pair two HomePods for stereo sound via AirPlay, even with the Apple TV. The subsequent tvOS 14 and HomePod Software updates expanded the functionality, allowing HomePods to serve as default speakers for the Apple TV.

Despite the positive reception of this feature, Apple’s decision to discontinue the original HomePod shortly before introducing eARC support for the Apple TV 4K created some confusion among users. The newer model supported wireless surround sound with HomePods, but the focus had shifted to the HomePod mini. Nevertheless, demand for the original HomePod remained strong, leading to the release of a second-generation variant in early 2023.

Since then, Apple has not introduced any new home products, leaving the Apple TV 4K, HomePod, and HomePod mini unchanged for nearly four years. Speculation suggests that new iterations of these devices, including a rumored “HomePad” smart display hub, could be unveiled soon. While details on a full-sized HomePod remain scarce, Apple’s potential plans for a display-equipped HomePod or a hybrid device integrating a smart display and speaker have generated interest.

[Please note that the information provided in this article is based on speculation and has not been confirmed by Apple. All rumors should be taken with caution and may not reflect actual developments.]