Apple TV users have long been able to set HomePods as speakers for audio output. But tvOS 27.2 looks poised to offer a big upgrade, with HomePod surround sound now available in the beta.
Update: Following publication, leaker pdfu posted on X that the feature referenced below is in tvOS 27.0 and isn’t actually for surround sound yet, despite additional evidence of the feature in 27.2 code. Original article below.
tvOS 27.2 beta 2 supports using four HomePods at once as speakers
Earlier this month, it was discovered that HomePod 27 beta 8 included references to a forthcoming surround sound feature for Apple TV.
Now as spotted by FlatpanelsHD, that feature has made an appearance in tvOS 27.2 beta 2.
As seen in the screenshot above, the Apple TV 4K running tvOS 27.2 is configured to send audio to four HomePods total—two full-size models and two HomePod minis.
More details are shared by Rasmus Larsen on FlatpanelsHD’s website:
Via the Home app, you can now pair two sets of HomePods, four in total, wirelessly to Apple TV 4K. However, the feature is not yet fully baked, as you cannot assign roles to the four speakers, for example rear speakers – they play the same audio from the front and rear. It works with Atmos and surround sound from video sources, but menu and game audio only plays through the front speakers.
It’s been widely rumored for some time that Apple is working on a big overhaul and expansion of its Home product line. A new ‘HomePad’ device along with new Apple TV 4K and HomePod models are expected to launch in October.
Surround sound could be a great addition for HomePod and Apple TV users. But it’s also likely a good sign that Apple will indeed launch new Home products soon.
Are you interested in a surround sound HomePod feature for Apple TV 4K? Let us know in the comments.
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