Apple’s HomePod can also wirelessly hook up to your Apple TV through AirPlay. Here’s a way to do it.
A Word of Warning First
Before you start using your HomePod as your new home theater speaker setup, it’s important to note that using the HomePod for Apple TV isn’t really what it’s meant for.
First things first, the HomePod only works with Apple TV, no other television inputs. So, for example, if you frequently switch between your Apple TV and watching cable on a different input, you won’t be able to use the HomePod as a speaker for when you watch cable.
The main thing to keep in mind is that AirPlay has a bit of a lag since it’s a wireless protocol. However, the Apple TV and the HomePod are smart enough to recognize this and compensate for the lag so that video and audio are lined up just right. Alas, this really only works with video content. If you play any games on your Apple TV, the lag is more obvious.
You will also need to reconnect the HomePod to your Apple TV whenever you reboot any of the devices. If you tell Siri to play music on the HomePod, the HomePod will disconnect from your Apple TV.
Lastly, the HomePod only works with the Apple TV 4 and Apple TV 4K.
You will be able to control video playback a little bit using Hey Siri on the HomePod. You can use your voice like play/pause, volume. So in a way, this enables you to control your Apple TV with your voice.
How to Connect the HomePod to the Apple TV
With your HomePod and Apple TV on the same network;
- Hold down the Play/Pause button on your Apple TV remote for about 3 secs until a menu pops up on the screen.
The menu lets you select the audio output. In this case, you’ll want to select your HomePod.
When you select the HomePod, a checkmark displays next to it.
- Press the “Menu” button on your Apple TV remote to go back to the home screen.
Now, you can start using it. You can even use your Apple TV remote to adjust the volume of the HomePod, or use the touch panel on the HomePod itself. An indicator is displayed in the top-right corner of the screen to show you the volume level.
You may notice some increased lag when pausing or scrubbing through the video content depending on which app you use to play video content, but it will eventually sync back up without a problem.
