HomePod setup process requires an Apple device capable of running iOS 11

Additional HomePod details are trickling in ahead of its scheduled February 9 launch.

The Verge notes that an iOS 11-capable Apple device is required for the setup process.

This isn’t surprising.

As we learned recently, HomePod owners will be using Apple’s stock HomePod app to set up their smart speaker, adjust its settings, install HomePod software updates and more.

HomePod supports Apple’s Automatic Setup process where you bring your iPhone near the speaker to transfer common settings, like Wi-Fi passwords, Siri settings and more.

Automatic Setup uses Bluetooth for proximity information..

But as we reported today, this doesn’t mean that HomePod can be used as a standalone Bluetooth speaker because Bluetooth isn’t a supported audio source, according to Apple’s Tech Specs webpage for the device, even though the smart speaker has onboard Bluetooth 5.0.

As a result, Apple Music subscribers with Android phones are seemingly out of luck, not only because HomePod doesn’t support Bluetooth audio streaming but also considering Apple doesn’t support AirPlay on Android.