How to Connect HomePod to Mac

While the HomePod is mostly reliable once set up, most users have difficulty setting it up initially. Especially when it comes to connecting HomePod to Mac. If you’re having trouble with your HomePod, check out this guide to easily connect your HomePod to your Mac.

Requirements for connecting HomePod to Mac

• You cannot set up HomePod using a Mac. So, set up your HomePod with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch in advance.
• Any of the following must be true:
  • HomePod and Mac must be connected to the same Wi-Fi.
  • HomePod and Mac must have the same Apple ID

If the above statement confuses you, let me clarify. Mac uses AirPlay to stream content to HomePod. Thus, they do not have to be on the same Apple ID or WiFi, although at least one of these situations must be met.

How to play content on HomePod via Mac

If your Mac and HomePod use the same Apple ID, HomePod will automatically appear in the Mac Home app and be set up. And whenever the HomePod is within range, music or other content from your Mac will automatically play on the smart speaker. To test the connection:

1. Open the Home app on your Mac.
2. Make sure HomePod is visible here and continue to the next step.
3. Now open System Preferences or System Preferences (macOS Ventura and above).
4. Click “Sound”→ “Output”.
5. Select HomePod from the options to start playing content on your HomePod.

The method will be pretty much the same if your Mac and HomePod are using the same WiFi. It won’t show up in the Home app, so follow steps 3 to 5.

Alternatively, you can visit your Mac’s Control Center, click on the Sound section → select HomePod from the options.

Sound in Control Center

HomePod won’t connect to Mac

If your HomePod isn’t showing up in the Home app or sound settings, check the following:

• HomePod and Mac are connected to the same WiFi or Apple ID.
• You have selected the correct device in the audio settings.
• HomePod volume, try increasing or adjusting it.
• HomePod firmware has been updated.

All of the above conditions are met, but are you still facing the issue? The problem may be in the HomePod; Check out our helpful guide on quick fixes for any HomePod related issue.

FAQ

Yes, but there are conditions. You’ll need an AirPlay-enabled Apple device to stream music to your HomePod.

Yes! To stream content to HomePod from a non-Apple device, you need to install Apple Music on your laptop or mobile phone. Sign in with the same Apple ID as your HomePod and you’re ready to go.

Yes, you can use your HomePod as a Mac speaker. Just change the sound settings in the settings.

Conclusion

I would like to admit that HomePod is a really great smart home contender. Compared to any other device, it has the best sound quality and connectivity. The only failure is understanding how the Apple ecosystem works and how to get the most out of it. What do you think about that? Let me know in the comments.