Apple's latest AppleSeed beta update for the HomePod appears to be causing various issues, including overheating the devices and even turning them off due to heat, according to a new thread on Reddit.
Apple offers developer betas and public betas for its products (iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, Macs, Apple Watches), allowing users to test upcoming software features before they are officially released. However, this is not the case for the HomePod. In the case of the HomePod, Apple creates an AppleSeed beta version, which is available only to invited users and allows them to test updates to the new HomePod software before the wider release.
See also: USA: HomePod sold out on Apple's online store
It is precisely this beta version of the HomePod that is causing the problems that users are reporting on Reddit and elsewhere.
The user who made the original post on Reddit stated, among other things: “I advise you to unplug any of your HomePods that have overheated leading to logic board issues…”.
As 9to5Mac reports, one of the most common complaints users have in this thread is that overheating while running the new beta. Apparently, quite a few people have installed the beta for the HomePod. Presumably, users were hoping to get the long-awaited Apple Music Lossless Audio for the HomePod (natively, not using AirPlay from the iPhone), but they have been facing various issues.
See also: How to use a HomePod Mini with your Mac
Although the HomePod and HomePod mini are only available to Apple, the necessary tools to install them are available online. This means that HomePod owners who aren't on the short list of Apple's Seed testing program have been able to install the HomePod beta firmware. The downside is that it's difficult to undo the update once it's installed.
See also: macOS 12 Monterey beta: Brings changes to FaceTime and Safari
This particular incident shows that it is a good idea to avoid installing beta versions that are not intended for everyone, especially when we are talking about Apple's HomePod.
Source: What Hi-Fi
