Apple’s upcoming HomePod Software update will continue to support the original first-generation HomePod, which the company released eight years ago. The new version, called HomePod Software 26, shows Apple’s approach to supporting older hardware.
What’s new
Apple will call the new version HomePod Software 26 instead of HomePod Software 19. The change comes as the company moves to a “26” numbering system that reflects the September 2025 to September 2026 cycle for all major software updates.
It’s not yet clear what features the new software will bring, but improvements to the Siri experience are expected. Apple’s efforts to integrate AI technologies into the voice assistant mean a more advanced voice command experience for HomePod users.
The HomePod family is set to grow this year or next. Apple’s long-rumored smart home hub device could finally be a reality. The company’s recent trademark filings suggest it could be previewed at WWDC 2025.
The smart home hub will expand HomePod’s voice assistant features and play a central role in home automation control. The device will further strengthen Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem, allowing users to manage all their smart home devices from a single location.
The WWDC 2025 keynote will begin at 10 a.m. Pacific time on Monday, June 9. The event will be available live on Apple’s website, YouTube channel, and Apple TV app. Apple’s software updates and new product announcements will be detailed at the event.
Apple’s continued support of an eight-year-old device demonstrates the company’s approach to long-term software support. This shows that HomePod purchasers are protecting their investment and that their devices will remain up to date. The continued software support despite the discontinuation of the original HomePod is an indication of Apple’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
The expansion of the HomePod family is part of Apple’s strategy to strengthen its position in the smart home market. In this market dominated by competitors such as Amazon Echo and Google Nest, Apple is trying to differentiate itself through premium segment and ecosystem integration. The new smart home hub will increase Apple’s competitiveness in this area by offering a seamless experience to iPhone, iPad and Mac users.
In today’s world where smart home technologies are rapidly developing, Apple is expected to take aggressive steps to eliminate criticisms that it is late. The widespread use of the HomeKit platform and support for more third-party devices will increase users’ loyalty to the Apple ecosystem. The innovations to be announced at WWDC 2025 will clearly reveal Apple’s smart home vision.
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