This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
The old Siri still answers voice commands on the HomePod. However, the new generation is already present in the code of the shipped HomePod software version 27 – complete with a new light ring in the colors of Siri AI. It just can't be activated.
Apple released HomePod software version 27 on September 14th, alongside iOS 27. The release notes mention AutoMix for Apple Music, faster AirPlay connections, and bug fixes; Siri AI is not mentioned. Current HomePods will continue to run the existing voice assistant.
Developer pdfu has examined the delivered software and shared X screenshots of the new interface. References to Siri AI in connection with HomePod setup had already appeared in the tvOS 27 beta in June. The current discovery goes significantly further.
Key Facts at a Glance
- HomePod software version 27 contains the system on which Siri AI is based.
- This includes a redesigned light ring and a new sound for the assistance system.
- The status indicator uses white, blue, and orange, the same color palette as Siri AI on other devices.
- The feature is not active on current models; it may be tied to newer hardware.
What lies in the code of the HomePod software
According to pdfu, the software contains the system behind Siri AI, internally called "Linwood." It's the same foundation on which the new assistant runs on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. In June, the beta version only contained references to the new Siri generation during the setup process—now the technology itself is part of the final software.
The surface and sound are also new. The light ring on the top of the HomePod displays new colors while listening, dominated by white, blue, and orange. There's also a dedicated notification tone for the voice assistant.
The surface matches the other devices
With the new colors, Apple is visually aligning the HomePod with its other platforms. Siri AI already appears in the same color scheme on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Users who rely on the assistant across multiple devices will now recognize it on the speaker by its familiar appearance.
Why the function is still dormant
pdfu itself notes that Siri AI on the HomePod might require new hardware. The process supports this: the software has been released, the technology is embedded, but it won't be activated on any of the current models.
The same developer had already discovered the surround sound system using four HomePods in the code at the beginning of September, which can now be set up in the beta version of tvOS 27.2. This discovery has now been confirmed.
The HomePod is waiting for new models
We expect that Siri AI on the HomePod won't arrive via an update for existing speakers, but will launch with new hardware. The fact that the software has been finalized and yet the feature remains disabled aligns with what has been apparent in the supply chain for months: New home devices are expected to be released in the fall; all the rumors about them are summarized in the overview for the HomePod 3 and HomePod mini 2.
Owners of a current HomePod will find the new assistant technically ready, but the code does not establish an entitlement to it.
Would you buy a new HomePod for Siri AI – or should Apple bring the assistant to the speakers already in your living room? Tell us in the comments where your limit is.
