Apple appears to be preparing to bring its more capable Siri AI experience to the HomePod, according to findings from code sleuth pdfu.

Code found in HomePod Software 27 reportedly includes the system behind Siri AI, internally referred to as “Linwood.” The update also introduces new Siri-related status lights that use colors associated with Apple's AI assistant.

However, since Siri AI is not currently available on existing HomePod models, the new functionality could require next-generation HomePod hardware.

HomePod Software 27 Includes Siri AI Framework

According to pdfu, HomePod Software 27 contains Linwood, the underlying system associated with Apple's new Siri AI.

The software also includes a redesigned visual and audio experience for Siri on HomePod. New status lights reportedly emphasize white, blue, and orange, matching the Siri AI color palette used across Apple's other devices.

The discovery suggests that Apple is preparing the HomePod for deeper AI integration, although it remains unclear which existing or upcoming models will support the new capabilities.

New HomePod Mini Could Get a Faster Chip

Apple is rumored to be developing an updated HomePod mini, with a faster processor expected to be one of its main upgrades.

The next-generation HomePod mini could use an S9 chip or newer, while Apple may potentially use the newer S11 chip found in the Apple Watch Series 12.

A faster processor would give the HomePod mini more processing capability and could help enable Siri AI and other Apple Intelligence features.

Siri AI May Still Depend on a Compatible iPhone

The new HomePod mini may not process every AI task entirely on the speaker itself.

Apple Watch Series 9 and newer models already support Siri AI, but some functionality requires a connected iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.

Apple could take a similar approach with future HomePod models, allowing the speaker to access certain Siri AI and Apple Intelligence capabilities through a compatible iPhone.

This could allow Apple to bring more advanced AI features to relatively compact home devices without requiring all of the processing to happen locally on the speaker.

HomePod Mini Could Also Get New Internal Hardware

The upcoming HomePod mini isn't expected to receive a major external redesign.

However, Apple could make several internal upgrades beyond the processor.

Possible changes include:

  ●Faster S-series processor

  ●Apple's N1 networking chip

  ●A newer Ultra Wideband chip

  ●Additional color options

  ●Support for Siri AI

The combination of a newer processor and updated connectivity hardware could make the next HomePod mini more capable without significantly changing its existing design.

Apple Is Expanding Siri AI Across the Smart Home

The HomePod mini may only be one part of Apple's broader smart-home strategy.

Apple is also reportedly developing an updated Apple TV 4K with a processor capable of supporting Siri AI.

In addition, the company is said to be working on a dedicated smart-home hub with Siri AI integration.

Apple is also developing an updated full-size HomePod, although its release timing remains unclear.

New Apple Home Products Could Arrive Soon

The next-generation HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K, and dedicated home hub could potentially launch as early as October, according to current reports.

If Apple follows through, the company could significantly expand Siri AI beyond the iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch and into the home.

For now, however, Siri AI support on HomePod remains unconfirmed for existing hardware. The appearance of Linwood in HomePod Software 27 provides a strong indication that Apple is preparing for a more advanced Siri experience, but the final hardware requirements and feature set are still unclear.

Source: Macrumors