Additional HomePod details are trickling in ahead of its scheduled February 9 launch.
HomePod setup process requires an Apple device capable of running iOS 11
Siri
HomePod cannot be used as a regular Bluetooth speaker
HomePod can't be used as a regular Bluetooth speaker even though it has Bluetooth 5.0.
Uber update drops compatibility with Apple Maps extensions and Siri integration
An update to Uber for iPhone, dated January 22, has nixed integration with Siri and Apple Maps.
Apple lists all the audio sources supported on HomePod
There has been some major confusion lately regarding what Apple's HomePod wireless speaker can and cannot play.
These are Apple’s first HomePod TV ads
Apple’s HomePod became available for pre-order two days ago, and the Cupertino-headquartered company is already hyping it up with four brand-new ads, subtly-named Bass, Beat, Distortion, and Equalizer.
Each name depicts the animation shown at the beginning of each respective video, just before the product itself appears in the frame. You can check them out below:
How to use Siri News on iPhone & iPad
If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch runs iOS 11.2.5 or later, Siri in hands-free mode can read out the news to you. You can even ask your smart digital assistant to read aloud news stories limited to specific domains, such as sports, business or music, here's how.
iTunes 12.7.3 brings Up Next support to HomePod via improved AirPlay menu
HomePod is arriving in less than three weeks and Apple is releasing advance software support for the $349 Siri-powered speaker ahead of its scheduled launch on Friday, February 9.
Video: hands-on with Siri News, HomePod support & other changes in iOS 11.2.5
Ahead of HomePod's February 9 launch, Apple today released the iOS 11.2.5 software update.
iOS 11.2.5 release notes & security fixes
On Tuesday, January 23, 2017, Apple released iOS 11.2.5 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
Here’s how HomePod will handle phone calls
One of the tidbits about HomePod that can be gleaned easily from Apple's refreshed website and today's press release announcing the device's February 9 availability is the fact that the Siri-driven smart speaker won't take phone calls at launch.
AppleCare+ for HomePod will cost $39 and cover AirPorts
HomePod is arriving February 9 with Apple's standard one-year warranty.
HomePod can play purchased iTunes music, stream Beats 1 & listen to podcasts without Apple Music subscription
HomePod is launching February 9 and you'll need an Apple Music subscription for full music functionality and to enjoy a catalog of more than 45 million songs because the Siri-driven smart speaker does not support non-Apple music services for the time being.