Better Speakerphone, Multiple Timers May Come To Apple HomePod

Apple's HomePod might be the most feature-packed smart speaker out there, and it might not have been able to, but the company does keep improving the HomePod via software updates. The upcoming HomePod OS 12 is the best of the latest and the latest add-ons to the Siri-powered smart speaker.

The update to the HomePod's software is expected to hit this fall Some of the latest corporate and retail companies have reportedly had a look at what's new for the HomePod, French site iGeneration reports. Among others, the ability to use the HomePod for calls and support for multiple timers

While HomePod has had some speakerphone features since launch, it can not get access to your contacts, so you you need to start a call from your phone, then switch to the HomePod for audio. The same goes for receiving calls – you need to answer a call on your phone, then switch over to the HomePod. This is set to change in HomePod OS 12, with users able to make and receive calls directly from the smart speaker. You would also be able to use the iPhone from the HomePod, making your homepage easier.

If you use your HomePod in the kitchen, the support for multiple timers could be extremely useful. When you're trying to put together dinner, it's not uncommon to have multiple pots cooking on the stove while you're going into the oven, be a major upgrade for the HomePod.

If you've suddenly wanted to buy a HomePod, you might want to hold off. Apple has been notoriously slow about bringing updates to the smart speaker, and it has been confirmed that these updates are in fact planned for the HomePod. If you already own the speaker and are wanting to use it, check out our HomePod tips and tricks to help the time before the update (possibly) arrives.