Apple HomePod could soon deliver a more immersive home audio experience, according to code references uncovered in the latest audioOS 27 beta. The findings point to a new surround sound system, a feature called Party Mode, and additional audio enhancements still in development.
The references were spotted this week by a user browsing through audioOS 27 beta 8. While the code shows active work on these capabilities, there is no guarantee Apple will ship them in a public release.
Four-Speaker Surround Sound Setup
The most significant discovery involves support for arranging four full-sized second-generation HomePod speakers into a surround sound configuration. At present, HomePod supports only a stereo pair setup, which can serve as the default speaker output for Apple TV.
In the quad layout, each speaker takes on a distinct role with tailored sound treatment. The front speakers rely on left- and right-specific processing and adjust for placement near walls and corners. The rear HomePods receive an omnidirectional treatment intended to fill the space behind and around the listener.
The new tuning includes a processing pipeline that manages each unit’s woofer and tweeters while controlling bass, EQ, synchronization, and calibration data. The code also points to dynamic surround sound tuning, allowing the four-speaker system to adapt its processing based on whether it is playing movies or music.
A separate system called “Forklift” appears in the code as well. It seems to combine two full-sized second-generation HomePod speakers with two additional speakers whose identifier does not match any current Apple HomePod product.
Party Mode and What Comes Next
Another feature referenced in the code is Party Mode. When enabled, it would spread HomePod audio into a wider, more ambient mix designed to fill a room more evenly rather than creating a single ideal listening spot directly in front of the speakers.
These software discoveries arrive amid reports about new HomePod hardware. Apple is said to be preparing a new HomePod mini for release within the next several months. The company is also testing a new full-sized HomePod, though that product is not considered imminent. Apple released its current full-sized model in February 2023.
Whether these features reach consumers remains uncertain, but the code indicates Apple continues to invest in the home theater capabilities across its HomePod lineup.
Source
Image: 9to5mac.com
