How to update HomePod after you’ve enabled Advanced Data Protection for iCloud

Find out what to do if you can’t set up or update your HomePod after Advanced Data Protection has been enabled.

With Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, all of the devices that you use with your Apple ID require a minimum software version. If you can’t set up or sign in to a new HomePod after you’ve enabled Advanced Data Protection for your account, you may need to update the HomePod software.

You can update your HomePod to the required software in one of two ways:

  • If you have a HomePod mini, you can update it using a Mac or PC.

  • For all HomePod models, including HomePod mini, you can choose to turn off Advanced Data Protection for iCloud temporarily and update your HomePod. Note that if you turn off Advanced Data Protection, your account uses standard data protection until you turn Advanced Data Protection back on.

How to update HomePod mini using a Mac or PC

  1. Plug your HomePod mini into your computer using the USB-C cable that came with it.

  2. If you’re using a Mac computer, open a Finder window. If you're using a PC, open the latest version of the Apple Devices app or iTunes.

  3. Select your HomePod when it appears on your computer. 

  4. Click Restore HomePod to update to the latest software. You’ll see a notification when the update is complete.

  5. Follow the instructions to set up your HomePod.

How to update HomePod by turning off Advanced Data Protection temporarily

If you choose to turn off Advanced Data Protection temporarily, you should turn it back on immediately after your HomePod software has been updated. Until you turn Advanced Data Protection back on, your account will use standard data protection.

  1. Turn off Advanced Data Protection in iCloud settings on your iPhone, iPad or Mac: in Settings or System Settings, tap your name, then tap iCloud. Scroll to Advanced Data Protection and turn off Advanced Data Protection.

  2. If you received an error message when you tried to set up your HomePod previously, you may need to follow these instructions to reset your HomePod. Then follow the instructions to set up your HomePod.

  3. Update your HomePod to the latest software using the Home app. 

  4. Turn on Advanced Data Protection in iCloud settings on your iPhone, iPad or Mac: in Settings or System Settings, tap your name, then tap iCloud. Scroll to Advanced Data Protection and turn on Advanced Data Protection.

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