And what is the signal strength?
When setting up the HomePod and HomePod mini, everything is almost automatic: from linking your account to connecting to your WiFi network. Your iPhone’s Wi-Fi connection will be transferred to your HomePod. There is no option to choose a WiFi network on the HomePod itself, but you can see which WiFi network the HomePod is connected to. You can also check the signal strength of the HomePod. We’ll show you how that works in this tip.
- WiFi on the HomePod
- Check HomePod network and signal strength
WiFi on the HomePod: this is how it works
The HomePod and HomePod mini are completely dependent on an active WiFi connection for use. Without WiFi, the HomePod can do almost nothing. Playing music directly on the speaker works via an active WiFi connection and Siri only works when the HomePod is online. The HomePod cannot be connected via Bluetooth to a phone or speaker to play music. You can play music via AirPlay, but this also requires a WiFi network.
The HomePod and HomePod mini work with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. Some people use both networks (each with their own name) because some devices cannot handle 5GHz. Although 5GHz offers higher speed transmission, the range there is more limited. The HomePod itself chooses the best available network if there are several in the house.
View WiFi network on HomePod and check signal strength
You can easily see which WiFi network the HomePod and HomePod mini are connected to. The function is somewhat hidden. To view the HomePod’s connected Wi-Fi network:
- Open the Home app on the iPhone or iPad.
- Find the HomePod and press and hold it.
- Scroll all the way to the bottom. There you will see information about the HomePod, including the serial number.
- You will see the WiFi address here. Tap this to switch to WiFi network.
The name of your network will be displayed here. It is therefore not possible to choose a different network from here to connect the HomePod to. The HomePod automatically chooses the best network. If you prefer a different network, it is best to restart the HomePod.
Since iOS 15.5, you will also find the signal strength next to the name of the connected WiFi network. This is indicated by the well-known arcs, as you see at the top of your iPhone screen.
View our complete HomePod tips overview. In countless useful HomePod tips we discuss almost every function, setting and possibility! Also check our HomePod mini review and read everything about buying the HomePod.
