It’s been almost a year since Apple released the HomePod mini, and since then, it now stands as the lone Siri-powered smart speaker in Apple’s lineup. This because Apple has completely discontinued the original HomePod, and has yet to release a suitable replacement. Part of the reason this is problematic for some is for a couple of reasons.
For one, the HomePod simply offers a better sound quality experience compared to the Mini. It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise considering the difference in size between the two. However, the original HomePod was a great option if you wanted to create an Apple-powered home theater system. Just create a studio pair with two HomePods, connect them to your Apple TV, and you have a fantastic experience.
Another reason is because Apple seems to be playing “catch up” a bit in the features department for the HomePod mini. This is evidenced by the fact that we are just now getting the ability to create HomePod mini stereo pair, which was previously not possible. No, this won’t replace the sound quality offered by the original HomePod when paired with another. But it does work quite admirably if you want to create a HomePod mini stereo pair and then connect them to your Mac.
Create HomePod mini Stereo Pair
If you have a couple of HomePod minis and want to enjoy the best sound experience in a small package, you’ll need to create HomePod mini stereo pair. But before you do that, you’ll first need to make sure that your HomePod minis are updated to the latest firmware.
In order to check for, and install, a firmware update, follow these steps:
Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
Tap the Home button.
Select Home Settings.
Tap Software Update.
If an update is available, tap the Update button next to your HomePod mini.
During the course of the update, the light at the top of your HomePod mini will be spinning white. This may take a little bit of time for the update to be downloaded and installed, so patience is key. After the update has been applied, the light will go back to the multi-color swirl that you’re more accustomed to seeing.
Now that your HomePod mini has been updated to version 15.0, you can proceed with the steps to create HomePod mini stereo pair. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
Touch and hold one of the HomePod minis.
Swipe up on the page.
Tap the Settings icon (cog) in the bottom right corner.
Tap Use as Stereo Pair.
Follow the on-screen instructions to create HomePod mini stereo pair.
After the process is completed, you’ll be able to then connect the HomePod minis to your Mac or Apple TV 4K, and can enjoy a surround sound experience. Plus, you’ll still have all of the same functionality that you would if you didn’t create a studio pair. This includes making requests of Siri, sending messages, turning off smart home products, and more.
Andrew is a freelance writer based on the East Coast of the US.
He has written for a variety of sites over the years, including iMore, Android Central, Phandroid, and a few others. Now, he spends his days working for an HVAC company, while moonlighting as a freelance writer at night.
> your Mac or Apple TV 4K
What about iOS devices such as iPhone or IPad? Can they use the mini homepods as stereo speakers?