Apple has dominated the tech scene for quite some time. While other tech giants have tried to wrestle the title away, there is no mistaking Apple’s brand awareness and product quality. But when it comes to interoperability (the ability for different systems to exchange info) Apple is lacking.
While your HomePod Mini uses Bluetooth for some connectivity, you can’t use one as a Bluetooth speaker. The only way to use audio with a HomePod Mini is by using an Apple device like an iPhone, iPad, Macbook, iMac, or an Apple TV.
While this can be annoying for some users, if you happen to be using all Apple products as we’ve explained before in our other guide, it’s not an issue. In fact, when paired with the correct devices, the HomePod and other Apple products work great together. Some might even say they work better than other products. To learn more about the HomePod and how it functions, read on!
Does the HomePod Mini use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?
Let’s jump right into how the HomePod communicates. The HomePod Mini uses both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but you can’t use it as a Bluetooth speaker replacement. For those applications, you’re better off using a product like the Sonos Roam (on Amazon). The HomePod Mini, unfortunately, needs an Apple device to work.
But why is this? If the HomePod uses both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, what gives? Well, it’s just not Apple’s prerogative to make products that work with other brands. Call it marketing to make you buy more Apple products, or call it innovative technology to get the best of both wireless connectivity worlds.
Basically, your HomePod can access Bluetooth via Apple’s HomeKit for smart devices. It can sense new devices that come close to the products using Bluetooth. For the most part, though, the HomePod relies on Wi-Fi to do most of its audio streaming.
It uses AirPlay to utilize your wireless network to communicate across devices. So to say it can just use both for any situation is false. It uses Wi-Fi for music and connectivity for audio sources, and it uses Bluetooth to communicate to other smart devices.
Unfortunately, you can’t just add this feature to the HomePod easily. In short, the HomePod can’t act as a straight Bluetooth speaker, only one that uses your Wi-Fi network (more Bluetooth devices in our guide). You can only connect using this method with another Apple product, like an iPhone or Apple TV 4K (on Amazon).
Using the Apple HomePod Mini as a Bluetooth Speaker
Apple designs its products to work with each other seamlessly. One downside to this approach is that it means that it won’t work with other brands easily. While this might not seem like a feature of Apple, in reality, it means their products work better because they don’t need to make things universal.
To clear things up, even more, the HomePod doesn’t use Bluetooth to transfer audio signals. It does not have the codecs needed to decode audio information for playback. HomePods use AirPlay, which uses Wi-Fi. So can you use the HomePod as a Bluetooth speaker? By now, you should have an idea of the answer — which is no. It has Bluetooth hardware to communicate with HomeKit devices, but it does not support audio playback.
But before you start searching for a new Bluetooth speaker setup, there is another option you can explore. It’s a bit of a workaround and has its own issues, but if you are dying to stream over Bluetooth, it might be your only option. One caveat, though, you need an Android device.
Using AirMusic to Stream to a HomePod
One thing you can do to stream music is using an app called AirMusic. The first thing, though, this is not a Bluetooth fix. Rather, the app uses your Wi-Fi connection as a bridge between your phone and the HomePod. How to stream music via AirMusic:
- Download AirMusic
- Once you download everything, you’ll need to tweak the settings. From the general setting, select the right audio source, in this case, AirPlay.
- You should be prompted by the app to start streaming via AirPlay.
- Once you have the right speakers selected, you should start to play your phone’s audio over the stream.
Keep in mind that not all music apps work with AirMusic. It is in no way a suitable replacement for a proper connection. In a pinch, though, it can work. You might need to do some troubleshooting, though. Another thing to keep in mind is that this is a paid app. Since it won’t work with some applications and devices, it’s worth using the free trial to see if it’s right for you.
Connecting via Bluetooth and the New Handoff Feature
While you can’t use your HomePod as a standalone Bluetooth speaker, there are some other nifty things it can do. One such feature is called Airplay Handoff. Basically, when you get close enough to your HomePod with an Apple device that is playing audio, it will prompt you to hand over the audio stream to the speaker.
The feature is fairly new and certainly has some bugs. But overall, it’s a great feature that can allow for streamless audio handoffs without any breaks. To get started, you’ll want to make sure your iPhone or iPad has the handoff function enabled. All you need to do is:
- Go to General Settings
- Find Airplay and Handoff
- Turn on the feature
From here, it’s easy to handoff the audio signal. All you need to do is be close enough to the HomePod for the Bluetooth HomeKit connection to the bridge. When this happens, you’ll see a little status bar at the top of the screen.
It will ask if you want to switch over the audio source. Once you do, you’ll now have the controls for the audio. It’s as easy as that. Keep in mind that the handoff feature is still being tested and needs a little work before it is as seamless as other Apple features.
Wrapping Up
The HomePod Mini is a great little speaker. It can pack a wallop and come loaded with tons of features. When it comes to Bluetooth connectivity, though, it falls a bit short. While you might guess you can use the device as a standalone Bluetooth speaker, you’d be wrong.
While there are some clever workarounds, if Bluetooth audio is what you are going for, you’re better off with a speaker like the Bose SoundLink II (on Amazon). If you already have some Apple products, like an iPhone, then connecting is a breeze. Additionally, Apple has come up with some very intriguing features like audio handoff. But you just can’t use a HomePod Mini like a regular Bluetooth speaker when it comes to Bluetooth.
FAQs
Can I use HomePod mini as Bluetooth speaker? ›
You can't connect your iPhone to the HomePod mini via Bluetooth, but it does use Bluetooth 5.0 for Apple AirPlay and Handoff. As your phone plays music, you can hold it close to the HomePod mini to transfer output devices; the audio will begin to play through the speaker instead of your phone.
Can you use HomePod mini as Bluetooth speaker without WiFi? ›You just have to use the playback app on your iPhone or iPad, press the AirPlay icon to send it to the HomePod, and you will see how despite not having WiFi the speaker will appear among the options.
How do I connect my Apple HomePod mini to Bluetooth? ›Unlock your iPhone or iPad and hold it next to HomePod or HomePod mini. Tap Set Up when it appears on your device's screen. If the setup screen doesn't appear, try locking your device and unlocking it again.
Can HomePod control Bluetooth speakers? ›You can play audio from iPhone on wireless devices like HomePod, Apple TV, AirPlay 2-enabled smart TVs, and Bluetooth headphones and speakers.
What is the Bluetooth version of HomePod mini? ›HomePod mini supports 802.11n WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0, plus it supports low-power Thread networking technology, which is a secure, mesh-based system designed to connect Internet of Things devices. HomePod mini's Thread support is limited to HomeKit devices so it can't be used cross-platform.
How do I set my HomePod mini as a speaker? ›While your HomePod Mini uses Bluetooth for some connectivity, you can't use one as a Bluetooth speaker. The only way to use audio with a HomePod Mini is by using an Apple device like an iPhone, iPad, Macbook, iMac, or an Apple TV.
Can I use HomePod mini as iPhone speaker? ›You can quickly hand off audio from your iOS device to your HomePod. HomePod can also play audio sent from an iOS or iPadOS device, Apple TV, or Mac using AirPlay 2. For details about using the Music app, the Podcasts app, and Control Center, see the iPhone User Guide or iPad User Guide.
Can HomePod mini work without phone? ›The HomePod mini doesn't support Android, which means you will need an iPhone or an iPad to set up and even control the smart speaker. While you cannot control and set up Apple's smart speaker with an Android phone, you can listen to music. Android users can stream music but will need third-party apps.
Can I use a HomePod mini alone? ›HomePod mini can play music on its own from a variety of sources but also can play any content using AirPlay 2. It acts as a Home Hub for your HomeKit accessories, can be used as an intercom system, get personalized recommendations, and much more.
Can I connect HomePod mini to TV? ›Assign your Apple TV and HomePod or HomePod mini to the same room in the Home app. If you want to use two HomePod or two HomePod mini speakers, create a stereo pair, then assign the stereo pair to the same room as your Apple TV in the Home app.
Where is advanced Bluetooth settings on iPhone? ›
- Swipe up from the bottom of your iPhone screen, or down from the upper-right corner of an iPhone X or later.
- Long press on the section of Control Center with wireless controls like Airplane Mode, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi to open the broader wireless controls.
Pick up an incoming call from your iPhone, kick back with your favorite shows on Apple TV, listen to music on your Mac — HomePod mini works effortlessly with all your Apple devices and experiences to take your sound to the next level.
Can HomePod be used just as a speaker? ›A set of stereo-paired HomePods can be set as the default sound option for a Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV, with the duo showing as a single selectable speaker.
Why did Apple stop selling HomePod? ›When it was eventually released, the HomePod's Siri fared poorly against Alexa and Google Assistant, and reviewers criticized how locked into Apple's ecosystem the smart speaker was. Despite getting a $50 price cut in 2019, the HomePod was eventually discontinued in 2021.
How do I add HomePod as speaker? ›- Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap the add button, the plus sign at the top right of your screen.
- Select Add Accessory.
- Tap More options.
- Choose HomePod and then follow the prompts in the app.
The speakerphone feature is available on both the HomePod mini and larger HomePod, but it works best with the latter device since it has a multi-microphone array, which features an advanced echo cancellation system so that Siri can understand anyone speaking to it in the room.
Is HomePod mini pair worth it? ›It took almost three years for that smaller model to arrive since its bigger sibling's debut – that's aeons in the world of tech – so, has the wait been worth it? It sure has: the HomePod Mini outperforms its size and price like no other smart speaker you can buy.
What phones are compatible with HomePod mini? ›The HomePod mini doesn't support Android, which means you will need an iPhone or an iPad to set up and even control the smart speaker.
How do I use my HomePod as a Bluetooth speaker? ›- Open the Home app on your iOS device.
- Tap the + button in the top right corner.
- Tap Add Accessory.
- Tap Don't Have a Code or Can't Scan at the bottom.
- Tap HomePod and follow the on-screen instructions.
Only One device (IPhone, Ipod, etc) can connect at one time. Unlimited devices are able to use it as long as it is set up for Airplay.
Where to place HomePod mini for best sound? ›
When setting up HomePod for the best surround sound, place the speaker within 10 inches (25 centimeters) of a wall and as close to the center of your TV as possible. If you use a HomePod stereo pair, place the speakers on either side of the TV.
Can you make a stereo pair with HomePod mini? ›You can create a stereo pair with two HomePod mini, two HomePod (1st generation), or two HomePod (2nd generation) speakers. To create a stereo pair, both HomePod speakers need to be assigned to the same room.
Can HomePod mini replace soundbar? ›You can use an Apple HomePod Mini as a soundbar, but you have to use it with the new Apple TV 4K. Go through the setup process for the HomePod Mini. Then on the Apple TV 4K, hold the home button down on the remote to open the control center, select the AirPlay icon, then select the HomePod Mini.
Can you connect Roku to HomePod? ›With HomeKit, you can easily and securely control your Roku device with your voice or by using the Home app and Siri on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, or HomePod.
Does HomePod mini need a cable? ›While not detailed in the tech specs, MacRumors can confirm that Apple's new HomePod mini features a non-detachable power cable that ends with a USB-C connector for use with the 20W power adapter included in the box.
How do I optimize my Bluetooth connection? ›Change the position or location of the unit or connected device. If the connected device has a cover on it, take it off to improve the communication distance. If the connected device is in a bag or in a pocket, try moving the position of the device. Place the devices closer together to improve signal transmission.
How do I use Bluetooth in hidden mode? ›Tap Settings. Tap Bluetooth. Tap the indicator next to "Bluetooth" to turn the function on or off. Tap the indicator next to "Open detection" to turn Bluetooth visibility on or off.
What is Bluetooth discovery mode on iPhone? ›Bluetooth starts up, and the status becomes ON. The iPhone immediately begins searching for Bluetooth devices. You also see the status Now Discoverable, which means that other Bluetooth devices can discover the iPhone. Put the other device in Discoverable mode.
Why would I want a HomePod? ›The HomePod functions as a hub for HomeKit, Apple's smart-home platform: With this speaker serving as a HomeKit hub, you can use your voice to control HomeKit-compatible devices around your home, including smart locks, thermostats, cameras, and smoke alarms, and also have access to them when you're not home.
Can HomePod mini answer calls? ›HomePod uses your iOS or iPadOS device to place and receive telephone and FaceTime audio calls. (iPhone is required for telephone calls.)
Is Apple HomePod mini always listening? ›
Siri only listens for “Hey Siri”
— so you can speak freely knowing nothing you say is sent out of your home until you activate Siri with a touch, or HomePod mini hears the magic words, “Hey Siri”.
You can use the HomePod as a soundbar to create a theater like experience with Dolby Atmos or surround sound right from your home. Since the HDMI ARC support in the new Apple TV 4K, the HomePod can be a default speaker for any device that you connect to your TV.
Can I play anything on HomePod? ›It can only play Beats 1 radio. For all other radio stations, you'll have to stream via AirPlay instead. As long as your phone is on the same wi-fi as the HomePod, fire up the BBC iPlayer Radio app (other radio apps are available), pick and play a station, tap the AirPlay icon and select HomePod from the pop-up menu.
What will replace HomePod? ›Apple HomePod Mini
The HomePod Mini, Apple's new prized smart speaker, is the most obvious replacement for the original HomePod for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that it runs on the same smart system via Siri and, in that regard, seamlessly steps into its larger sibling's place.
Even though the HomePod is discontinued it hasn't been end-of-lifed. The device will continue to function for years to come with updates from Apple and support for basic features. Even if the speaker one day stops working with Apple services like Apple Music or HomeKit, it will still function as an AirPlay 2 target.
Is Apple killing the HomePod? ›The current state of HomePod
Fast forward to 2021 and the HomePod was discontinued, with Apple refocusing its efforts on the smaller and more affordable HomePod mini. As it stands today, the HomePod mini is still the only smart speaker that Apple sells, which means the “mini” adjective isn't really doing much work.
Similar to most of Google's Nest speakers, the HomePod mini lacks a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting an external speaker; unlike Nest (and Echo) speakers, however, Apple's smart speaker can't send audio to a Bluetooth speaker, nor can you designate a wireless speaker as a “preferred” playback option for the mini.
Can HomePod mini be used as stereo pair? ›You can create a stereo pair with two HomePod mini, two HomePod (1st generation) or two HomePod (2nd generation) speakers. To create a stereo pair, both HomePod speakers need to be assigned to the same room. In the Home app on your iOS or iPadOS device, tap a HomePod.
Can you use HomePod mini as Bluetooth speaker for Windows? ›If the computer is a PC, you cannot. HomePods are not bluetooth speakers.
Can I use HomePod mini as a speaker for my TV? ›If you want to use two HomePod or two HomePod mini speakers, create a stereo pair, then assign the stereo pair to the same room as your Apple TV in the Home app. Turn on your Apple TV. You'll be asked if you want to Use HomePod speakers as Apple TV speakers. Select Use as TV Speakers to turn on home theater audio.
Does HomePod mini have AUX OUT? ›
Similar to most of Google's Nest speakers, the HomePod mini lacks a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting an external speaker; unlike Nest (and Echo) speakers, however, Apple's smart speaker can't send audio to a Bluetooth speaker, nor can you designate a wireless speaker as a “preferred” playback option for the mini.
How good is HomePod mini stereo sound? ›Sure, you get slightly less detail and range than with the larger HomePod, but you're not going to be upset with the quality of audio you get here. The HomePod Mini isn't just impressive for a smaller speaker, it's impressive full stop. Put two speakers together into a stereo pair, and the quality is even better.
Can I use HomePod as an external speaker? ›You can use one HomePod or HomePod mini as a speaker for your Mac, but it's obviously better if you have a stereo pair. (Reminder: to create a stereo pair you have to have two of the same model HomePod; you can't stereo pair a first- and second-generation HomePod, or a HomePod with a HomePod mini.)
Can I use HomePod as a listening device? ›While you can't use Live Listen with HomePods, there is one way that someone can listen in on your private conversations. For this to happen, they need to be in your home, and Siri needs to be set up to read out your text messages automatically.
Can you use HomePod mini as a computer speaker? ›Open the Apple Music app on your Mac, select the AirPlay icon in the top-right corner, and select the stereo-paired HomePod minis as the default speakers. Be sure to deselect your computer's speakers, too.
What is a HomePod mini used for? ›Pick up an incoming call from your iPhone, kick back with your favorite shows on Apple TV, listen to music on your Mac — HomePod mini works effortlessly with all your Apple devices and experiences to take your sound to the next level.
Is HomePod mini good for movies? ›HomePod as TV speakers
Since the built-in TV speakers are not exactly great, I bought two pairs of HomePod minis so that I can use them not only for a better music experience, but also to watch movies and shows with better audio quality. And in fact, I really enjoy using HomePods as TV speakers.