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Apple Is Testing a Four-HomePod Surround System, Code Suggests
MacRumors • • technology
Key Points:
- Apple is reportedly developing advanced HomePod home theater features, including a four-speaker surround sound system with front-left, front-right, rear-left, and rear-right configurations, as revealed in audioOS 27 beta 8 code.
- The surround sound setup includes automatic room calibration, speaker-position mapping, timing adjustments, bass management, EQ, dialogue enhancement, and distinct processing modes for movies and music.
- A new "Party Mode" is in development for stereo-paired HomePods, designed to create a more diffuse sound field that spreads audio evenly across a room for an immersive experience.
- The code references a new tuning system called "Forklift," which combines two second-generation HomePods with two unidentified speakers, possibly indicating an upcoming HomePod mini, third-generation HomePod, or another unreleased device.
- These features are currently in testing and not yet available for configuration via the Home app or Apple TV; they may be part of an upcoming HomePod, Apple TV, and smart home hub refresh expected soon.
