HomePods can be set as default speakers for Apple TV 4K and AirPlay 2 speakers may soon function in much the same way, according to iOS 16.1 beta code discovered by 9to5Mac.

Wouldn't it be nice if you could use your AirPlay 2-enabled speakers from Bang & Olufsen, Bluesound, Bose, Harman, JBL, Sonos or even Roku for wireless Apple TV sound? Well, you already can but only temporarily until you put your Apple TV 4K to standby – plus other limitations.

The option to use wireless speakers as the default audio output for Apple TV 4K is currently limited to HomePod mini and the original HomePod (which is discontinued). As detailed in our Apple TV 4K 2021 review the system works incredibly well and HomePods can even play sound from PlayStation 5, Xbox and other HDMI devices connected to your TV (through Apple TV 4K 2021's HDMI eARC).


 Like HomePod, AirPlay 2 speakers may soon function as default Apple TV speakers

AirPlay 2 speaker groups
In the iOS 16.1 beta, 9to5Mac has discovered hidden code that lets a user pair AirPlay 2 speakers in a permanent speaker group via the Home app. A speaker group can apparently be set as the default audio output for an Apple TV 4K.

- "With this update, users should be able to create a permanent speaker group in the Home app, making this process much simpler. One of the messages hidden in the beta’s code shows that the speaker group can be set as the default audio output of an Apple TV," reports 9to5Mac.

The code also makes it clear that all speakers within a speaker group must use the same Siri language.

Apple has confirmed that it will launch its new Home architecture with Matter support later this year. The expanded AirPlay 2 speaker capabilities could be part of that initiative.

Apple is also rumored to be working on a new HomePod designed for Apple TV as well as an upgraded Apple TV box with A14. It has also patented a system for wireless HomePod surround sound.

- Source: 9to5Mac