Apple’s HomePod is now available for pre-order and will hit the retail stores in the United States, the UK, and Australia from February 9. While expensive at $349, the HomePod has been praised for its outstanding music quality which is significantly ahead of its competition.
Even though the HomePod is a ‘smart’ speaker, it has a very weird restriction: it is compatible with only selected iPhone and iPad models. Yes, only selected iOS devices. The HomePod is not compatible with Android devices despite having Bluetooth 5.0.
As for iPhones and iPads, the HomePod is compatible with the following models.
HomePod Compatible iPhone Models
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
HomePod Compatible iPad Models
- 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro (All models)
- 9.7-inch iPad Pro
- iPad 5th generation
- iPad Air 2
- iPad Air
- iPad mini 2 and higher
Additionally, the HomePod is also compatible with the 6th generation iPod Touch.
You also need to ensure that your iPhone or iPad is running iOS 11.2.5 or higher to be able to pair your iOS device with the HomePod. While obvious, its worth mentioning that the HomePod needs an active WiFi connection to work. It also needs to be connected to a power outlet at all times even though renders on Apple’s HomePod website might suggest otherwise.
Apple Music Subscription
While not a necessity, you will also need an Apple Music subscription to be able to take full advantage of the HomePod. Without an Apple Music subscription, you will be limited to streaming songs purchased directly from the iTunes Store and your iCloud Music Library provided you have an iTunes Match subscription. An iTunes Match subscription costs $24.99/year while it comes bundled with Apple Music. It allows users to upload up to 100,000 songs from their library to their iCloud Music library without eating into their iCloud storage space.
If you have not subscribed to Apple Music before, you will be able to enjoy a three-month free trial initially.
Are you looking forward to buying the HomePod despite it being compatible with only iOS devices?
