Apple is bringing a big audio upgrade to your living room. The company just pushed out the iOS 27.2 release candidate alongside several other device updates. Among these new changes, the latest tvOS 27 testing version quietly adds support for a four-speaker surround sound setup. Once this software goes public, you can connect multiple HomePod speakers to your television and create a home theater experience without buying a separate soundbar.
New update groups four speakers to build a home theater
To get this working, you will need the upcoming fourth-generation Apple TV 4K. You can link four HomePod mini 2 speakers, four second-generation HomePods, or a mixed set of two big and two small speakers. The only rule is that each pair must match. Older hardware like the original HomePod models and older television boxes will not support this feature.
When you link these speakers, the system treats them as a single audio accessory. The devices will automatically figure out where they are sitting in your room to adjust their timing and volume levels. You can manage the setup right on your television screen or start the process using the remote app on your phone.
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The tech giant is currently finishing up the release candidates for watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS to launch alongside these smart home features. The HomePod mini 2 arrives on October 30, and the new television box hits store shelves on November 13.
Apple is expected to roll out the public software updates sometime next week so your devices will be ready when the new hardware ships. This new audio feature gives you a great reason to use your existing smart speakers for movie nights. The software handles all the heavy audio mixing in the background, leaving you to just sit back and enjoy the show.
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