How to restart your HomePod or HomePod mini if it isn’t responding

The HomePod lacks a screen or physical button, so restarting it to troubleshoot errors that might occur in regular use requires using your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Follow along as we show you how to restart your HomePod or HomePod mini.

A white and blue HomePod mini kept near an iPhone with the Restart HomePod option on the screen

Restarting vs. resetting

Restarting the speaker is the same as restarting any other device, like your iPhone or Mac. No data is deleted as the device simply shuts down and then reboots, allowing you to pick up right where you left off without losing anything.

Resetting a HomePod clears all data, removes the device from the Home app, and reloads all factory settings. As a result, you must set up your speaker as new to use it again. Therefore, you should only reset your HomePod or HomePod mini when you want to reload factory settings, fix major issues, need to send the speaker in for service, or want to sell or give it away.

How to restart HomePod

  1. Make sure Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and it’s near your HomePod (like in the same room or house).
  2. Open the Home app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and select your HomePod.
  3. Click the small settings icon or scroll down to the bottom and tap Reset HomePod > Restart HomePod.
Restart HomePod using Home app on iPhone

Now your HomePod will automatically reboot; that is, it will power off and power on again. When it starts, you’ll see the usual spinning white light. After a few seconds, you can use your HomePod with iOS devices or Mac. You can also use Siri or directly control your smart home and smart accessories using your HomePod.

Note: If you have two HomePods arranged in a stereo pair, you’ll only see the Restart HomePod command; no need to first tap Reset HomePod and then choose Restart HomePod.

Another way

Besides the above steps, you can always turn off the main switch of your HomePod’s adapter or remove it from the power plug. After that, wait 15 seconds before flipping the switch back on or replugging the adapter.

Do more with your HomePod: