Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

jingo_man

macrumors member
Original poster
Nov 11, 2018
56
10
I wasn't able to add a HomePod mini. When placed next to an iPhone, I believe it should auto-prompt with the setup guide, or you can add as a "New accessory" to the Home app.

Neither works for me. the iPhone XR is on 13.4.1, which I do not want to upgrade any further.

Is there a limitation on which versions can perform this action? maybe it was [accidentally] lost/removed or superseded?

Also tried on an iPad at the same version, 13.4.1. There does not seem to be any other way to add this device into my setup. I went through a long call with Apple support.
 
I don't know, but probably yes. Apple generally assumes that we keep our devices updated.
Could I use a friend’s iPhone on my home network to setup? Or will it all need to be against my Apple ID?
 
I doubt it, as the HomePod would then be linked to your friend's iPhone.
 
I wasn't able to add a HomePod mini. When placed next to an iPhone, I believe it should auto-prompt with the setup guide, or you can add as a "New accessory" to the Home app.

Neither works for me. the iPhone XR is on 13.4.1, which I do not want to upgrade any further.

Is there a limitation on which versions can perform this action? maybe it was [accidentally] lost/removed or superseded?

Also tried on an iPad at the same version, 13.4.1. There does not seem to be any other way to add this device into my setup. I went through a long call with Apple support.

Considering iOS 13.4.1 was released April 7, 2020, and HomePod mini was announced October 13, 2020, the software for HomePod mini doesn't exist in 13.4.1... Why are you staying on 13.4.1? Not even on iOS 13.7? (13.7 wouldn't work either) I've heard of someone staying on an old major iOS version, but not in the middle like 13.4.1.
 
13.4.1 is the latest version before the covid track & trace API is installed.

What HomePod mini software is required? Because the bigger unit did pre-exist this date.
 
HomePod mini will work with 13.4.1. You should be able to set it up without difficulty.

Check the following support articles, and if you are still unsuccessful then contact Apple Support for assistance. I assume this is a new HomePod mini that you are trying to set up for the first time?


 
HomePod mini will work with 13.4.1. You should be able to set it up without difficulty.

Check the following support articles, and if you are still unsuccessful then contact Apple Support for assistance. I assume this is a new HomePod mini that you are trying to set up for the first time?


Thanks for the input. I expected this version to work, but the new device never creates the pop up on iPhone or is never discovered when trying to add new “nearby” accessory in the Home app. Much troubleshooting, with Apple support too
 
13.4.1 is the latest version before the covid track & trace API is installed.

What HomePod mini software is required? Because the bigger unit did pre-exist this date.

While our views may differ I'm am curious. Why invest more into an ecosystem you don't trust? Just curious...
 
  • Like
Reactions: ouimetnick
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.