# Apple HomePod hardware and software development

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/apple-homepod-hardware-and-software-development
> Updated: 2026-09-06T04:17:30.000Z. Sources: 17. Developments: 3.

Reports indicate Apple is developing a second-generation HomePod mini, which would be the first major hardware update for the smart speaker since 2020. This new model is expected to feature a more powerful processor, such as the S9 chip, to support enhanced computational audio and an upgraded version of Siri integrated with Apple Intelligence.

Recent code discovered in the audioOS 27 beta and macOS Tahoe 26.7 suggests significant software and hardware expansions. A potential four-speaker surround sound configuration would allow users to arrange four second-generation HomePods into a home theater system. In this setup, front speakers would handle stereo channels with acoustic compensation for wall or corner placement, while rear speakers would utilize omnidirectional processing. The system would manage automatic room calibration, timing adjustments, bass management, and EQ.

Software developments also include a ‘Party Mode’ for stereo-paired speakers, designed to create a more diffuse and even sound field across a room rather than optimizing for a single ‘sweet spot.’

Technical references to a hardware configuration codenamed ‘Forklift’ suggest Apple may combine two second-generation HomePods with two unidentified speakers from the AID12007 hardware family. This indicates potential new audio hardware, such as a third-generation HomePod or a new HomePod mini, to complement these ecosystem updates. Additionally, code references to two gaming controller models, T6502 and T1507, suggest a potential move into the gaming peripheral market. The T6502 is described as a basic wired model with advanced haptic feedback via four channels, while the T1507 is a wireless Bluetooth model featuring a gyroscope and accelerometer.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-06: Apple develops new gaming controllers and HomePod audio features

Leaks in Apple's latest software betas suggest the company is testing new gaming controllers and a four-speaker HomePod surround sound system with a new “Party Mode.”

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/apple-develops-new-homepod-surround-sound-and-gaming-controllers

### 2026-09-04: Apple tests four-speaker HomePod surround sound system

Code in audioOS 27 beta 8 suggests Apple is testing a four-speaker HomePod surround sound system and a new “Party Mode” for more even room coverage.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/apple-tests-four-speaker-homepod-home-theater-setup

### 2026-08-13: Apple reportedly developing second-generation HomePod mini

Apple is reportedly developing a second-generation HomePod mini, featuring upgraded chips to support enhanced Siri AI capabilities and improved computational audio.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/apple-reportedly-developing-second-generation-homepod-mini

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