Redakcja Choose TV
Apple may be preparing a major change in how HomePods are used as TV speakers. References to a configuration using as many as four HomePods were found in the code of a test version of audioOS 27. The setup would provide true surround sound with separate front and rear channels. Currently Apple allows up to two HomePods to be wirelessly connected to the Apple TV 4K. The new feature is still being tested, and it's unclear whether or when it will reach users.
Four HomePods will create a surround setup
Information about a planned feature was found in the code of the eighth beta of audioOS 27. One reference indicates a mode intended for multichannel movie audio and surround configurations. According to the findings, the system would support four speakers simultaneously. Individual units could act as the left and right front speakers and the left and right rear speakers. That would be a far more extensive system than the current two-HomePod configuration. Today, Apple TV 4K can wirelessly work with up to two HomePods when playing films and music. Even if the source contains a 5.1 track or Dolby Atmos, the sound is virtualised and played through two physical speakers. Four devices would allow for a much more conventional surround arrangement. The software is said to provide automatic room calibration and determine speaker positions. The code also contains references to time synchronisation, bass management and equalisation. The system would additionally offer different processing modes for films and music. The new feature would not be available for every Apple speaker. According to the findings, the four-speaker set would be intended only for second-generation HomePods. The first-generation HomePod and the smaller HomePod mini would not be supported.
Apple has been working on this kind of solution for years
The idea of using multiple HomePods to create a surround system is not new. As early as 2019, reports surfaced about an Apple patent covering spatial audio technology for those speakers. The patent itself was filed back in 2017. That means the company may have been developing a similar solution for at least nine years. At the same time, the HomePod hasn't achieved the same popularity as some other Apple products. Limitations related, among other things, to supported music services, Siri and the way devices pair may have hindered its uptake. Apple, however, apparently isn't giving up on developing the smart speaker and smart home devices category. The audioOS 27 code is also said to contain references to a new HomePod model. According to earlier reports, the company is working on a third-generation HomePod equipped with AI-powered Siri features. However, the new generation isn't expected any time soon. Apple is also said to be preparing a new version of the Apple TV 4K. Even more interesting information appeared in the macOS 26.7 code, where references were found to two game controllers designed by Apple. The devices are expected to include, among other things, haptic feedback, a D-pad, analog sticks and shoulder buttons. They are also said to use an accelerometer and a gyroscope. Rumours of an Apple game controller have surfaced for several years, but the company has never officially confirmed such a product.
Apple is testing a four‑HomePod configuration that could in future provide significantly more advanced spatial sound when using the Apple TV 4K. The feature is expected to include automatic room calibration, speaker position mapping and separate audio processing for films and music. For now, it appears to be at the testing stage, and support would be limited to the second-generation HomePod. Apple may also be preparing a new HomePod, a new Apple TV 4K and its own game controllers.
source: flatpanelshd
