The first beta of Apple’s upcoming HomePod Software Version 15.1 has reintroduced Lossless and Dolby Atmos with Spatial Audio support to the company’s smart speakers.
Now, in HomePod Software Version 15.1 beta 1, Apple has reintroduced both of those features, suggesting that support could launch when the final version of the software is released to the public. 9to5Mac first spotted the new features in the latest beta.
First introduced earlier in 2021, lossless audio and Spatial Audio are two features baked into Apple MusicThe first allows users to stream tracks at a much higher quality, while the second simulates sound in three-dimensional space.
Users running the HomePod beta software can enable the features in the Home app by tapping on Home Settings, Media, and Apple Music.
Story Highlights
Apple seeded the HomePod 15.1 beta software update today and it adds support for Dolby Atmos and lossless audio.
After launching Apple Music Lossless and Spatial Audio in May, the company said that the HomePod mini and HomePod would receive support at a later date. Apple added lossless support in a prior beta, but removed it before the official release of Software Version 15.
Apple does note that lossless audio will consume much more data than non-lossless streaming. Additionally, Dolby Atmos with Spatial Audio support isn’t available for every song or artist.
Lossless audio and Spatial Audio are free features for Apple Music subscribers.