Apple’s HomePod is a powerful smart speaker with excellent sound quality and deep integration with Apple services. However, unlike Apple Music, Spotify is not natively supported on the HomePod. While this might seem like a drawback for Spotify users, there are still multiple ways to stream and control Spotify on a HomePod.
Using AirPlay to Stream Spotify to HomePod
Since Spotify does not have direct HomePod integration, the most effective way to play Spotify on a HomePod is by using Apple’s AirPlay. AirPlay allows users to wirelessly stream audio from Apple devices to their HomePod.
Steps to Stream Spotify Using AirPlay:
- Ensure your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the HomePod.
- Open the Spotify app on your device.
- Play any song, playlist, or podcast.
- Tap the Devices icon (it looks like a speaker with sound waves) at the bottom of the Spotify app.
- Select AirPlay or Bluetooth from the list.
- Choose your HomePod from the list of available AirPlay speakers.
- The audio will start streaming through the HomePod.
While this method provides excellent audio quality, users cannot use Siri voice commands to directly control Spotify playback beyond basic AirPlay control.
Using Siri to Control Spotify on HomePod
Since Spotify isn’t a native HomePod music service, users cannot set it as their default music provider, but Siri voice commands still work for certain functions. Once the music is playing through AirPlay, users can say:
- “Hey Siri, pause.” – to pause the playback.
- “Hey Siri, resume.” – to continue playing.
- “Hey Siri, stop.” – to stop Spotify completely.
- “Hey Siri, turn the volume up/down.” – to adjust the volume.
More advanced commands, like requesting specific songs or playlists from Spotify, are not supported natively in Siri on HomePod. However, users can use Siri on their iPhone or iPad to control Spotify, and then AirPlay the audio to HomePod.
Using a Mac to Stream Spotify to HomePod
If Spotify is being used on a Mac, users can stream audio to their HomePod via the system-wide AirPlay feature.
How to AirPlay Spotify from a Mac:
- Open the Spotify app on your Mac.
- Click the speakers icon near the Mac’s volume control in the top menu bar.
- Select AirPlay and choose your HomePod.
- Start playing music, and the audio will stream to the HomePod.
This method functions identically to iPhone AirPlay streaming but offers more flexibility through the Mac’s multitasking capabilities.
Alternative Methods for Playing Spotify on HomePod
While AirPlay is the best way to stream Spotify to HomePod, there are a few alternative solutions:
- Third-party apps: Some apps offer automation features that can enhance Spotify’s functionality with Siri on HomePod, though they often require additional setup.
- Bluetooth Adapters: A workaround is using a Bluetooth audio adapter connected to the HomePod, allowing any device with Bluetooth to stream audio.
These methods are not as seamless as AirPlay but may be useful for users looking for different solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I set Spotify as my default music service on HomePod?
No, Apple does not currently allow Spotify to be set as the default music service on HomePod. Only Apple Music works natively.
Do I need a Spotify Premium account to use AirPlay on HomePod?
No, both Spotify Free and Spotify Premium accounts support AirPlay streaming to HomePod.
Can I use Siri to ask HomePod to play a specific song on Spotify?
No, Siri on HomePod cannot fetch specific songs from Spotify. You must start playback from another device and then use AirPlay.
Does AirPlay affect audio quality?
AirPlay streams audio wirelessly at high quality, so there is no significant loss in sound quality compared to direct playback.
Can I connect multiple HomePods to play Spotify audio?
Yes, by using AirPlay 2, users can connect multiple HomePods and play synchronized Spotify audio across them.
Even though Spotify doesn’t have native support for HomePod, users can still enjoy seamless music streaming using AirPlay and other simple workarounds. With the right setup, Spotify subscribers can effortlessly listen to their favorite tracks on Apple’s smart speaker.
