Similar to iPhones, Sound Recognition on Apple’s HomePod speakers relies on built-in microphones to listen for ambient sound and voice commands. In the case of the HomePod 2023 and HomePod Mini, it is also used to detect alarms coming from non-smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

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Smoke notifications can be accompanied by video recordings from security cameras

When enabled, a HomePod can recognize alarms and subsequently notify users via the Home app for iPhones, iPads, and even Apple watches. Do take note that notifications are sent if a user is away from the home. As an added measure of precaution, recorded video footage can be sent if there is a connected HomeKit-ready security camera within the same smart home network.

Where privacy is concerned, Apple claimed that all sound recognitions are processed locally on the smart device. At the same time, communication between other Apple hardware uses end-to-end encryption.

How to activate and use Smoke Detection on the Apple HomePod

The hardware restriction in the Sound Recognition feature supports only the latest Apple HomePod 2023 and the HomePod Mini. Activating it requires you to be on the latest HomePod OS and Home app versions.

If you haven’t updated yet, you should automatically see a prompt to install the latest software for both of your HomePod or Home mobile app when opening the Home app.

Below is a step-by-step guide on enabling smoke or carbon monoxide detection on a compatible Apple HomePod speaker.

1. Launch the Home app on the iPhone or iPad.
2. Navigate to the main settings and select Safety & Security.
3. Choose Sound Recognition to turn on or off the feature.

As with other smart home devices and accessories, you can allow other Home accounts to tune in to what’s going on at home to receive critical notifications as well. You can manage this from the Safety & Security section.

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We’d like to know if you would consider buying an Apple HomePod smart speaker with this new smoke or carbon alarm detection feature? Do you think the advanced technology would do well with other smart home devices too? Tell us in the comment section.