HomePod Gen. 1 Update Unavailable

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Level 1

12 points

HomePod Gen. 1 Update Unavailable

I have a HomePod 1st Gen. that will not complete the setup process. It proceeds all the way to Syncing with iCloud and never ends. Literally. 24 hours.

I have Factory Reset. I have tried 2 iPads, iPhone and Mac. I have the latest updates on all devices.

I left it unplugged for 2 weeks to fully discharge and same results.

I tried multiple network connections. 2.4, 5 and 6. With and without authentication requirements.

Nothing worked. The unit was up and working, I simply unplugged it to move to a different shelf when it was no longer in my HomeKit, so I reset it and it’s never worked again.

I just received a USB developer cable and my MacBook sees the unit in Finder, but I can not restore the system because I get an Apple error.

Any helpful resources for this issue out there?

Thanks.

[Edited by Moderator]

HomePod, 18

Posted on Apr 3, 2025 04:09 PM

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Answer 1

Vancouver22

Level 8

37,160 points

Apr 3, 2025 05:23 PM in response to s.j.daniels

You cannot plug this model into a Mac. Restoring via Mac is for a HomePod mini. You can use the home app on a Mac to perform an update.

if you had automatic updates enabled and unplugged it during an update, this is not good to do. Otherwise it can be unplugged and moved and should still work and be visible in the home app where you can assign it to a new room if needed.

Do you think you unplugged during a software update? Are the volume lights blinking on top? Does it do anything when you press the top?

Unfortunately this older model does not do well with hard resets and set up. I’m more inclined to recommend a restart instead of a hard reset, so we can avoid the setting up part again. (They can get bricked) It’s a discontinued model and has no warranty.

unplug it from the outlet for over 24 hrs and plug back directly into a wall outlet, wait for it to chime it’s ready and try setting it up again. Set up HomePod

If it’s still not working you may as well well try the hard reset again by unplugging for over 24 hrs first, plug back in then proceed as per pressing the top reset instructions here: Reset HomePod or HomePod mini This process will start by unplugging it.

As a side note the latest software is 18.4 . What version is it on? You won’t be able to see this if it’s no longer in the home app but it may still show up in your list of devices, in settings on iPad or iPhone under your name, scroll down to see if it’s still listed there. Then tap on that to view its details.

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Answer 2

s.j.daniels Author

Level 1

12 points

Apr 4, 2025 10:20 AM in response to Vancouver22

No, I have the service port adapter. When you pull the base off there is a pin out service port on the bottom. I have the replacement base for service with USB.

i have an IPSW file for the unit as well, but that’s a nightmare through BREW. So I tried using the Mac supplied restore button and it basically appears Apple has removed the old firmware from their servers, so it may be that BREW and idevicerestore from Git is my only option.

Also, yes. My HomeKit app said there was an Update, but I did not start the update because I was moving everything around when I was notified. I am assuming it started anyways, as my iPads tend to be updated every time I use them 🤷🏻‍♂️ without me agreeing or accepting the updates.

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Answer 3

Vancouver22

Level 8

37,160 points

Apr 4, 2025 10:42 PM in response to s.j.daniels

The Mac wouldn’t be able to restore it. Because you modified it there’s really nothing we can advise to get it working.

If you have other HomePods you want to unplug and move in the future, they might take a few minutes or more to come back to life. They need to reconnect to the internet. I move mine around all the time and they’re fine with it. It could have been you unplugged it during an update or by coincidence your wifi went down, in which case a wifi reboot might be in order. When something isn’t working it’s best not to panic and start doing drastic things to it like this. Come here to the forum first to see if we might assist with some troubleshooting tips for you to try.

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Answer 4

Vancouver22

Level 8

37,160 points

Apr 3, 2025 05:30 PM in response to s.j.daniels

Please do not post images that include serial numbers. This image may be removed from your post now! We will note the Model Number: MQHW2LL/A (OG HomePod) as per Mac Finder image.

Thanks

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HomePod Gen. 1 Update Unavailable

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