Unlike the HomePod mini, neither the original HomePod nor the HomePod 2 have a USB cable. This means there is no easy way to connect them to a computer to fix software issues. And unfortunately, there are many users whose HomePods have stopped working due to software bugs. But someone has found a way to fix these HomePods.
Repairing original HomePods with blocked software
As shown in a video by Nic’s Fix, a HomePod repair specialist, there is a way to restore some original HomePods with disabled software. It’s not entirely easy and requires a bit of electronics knowledge, but it proves that disabled HomePods aren’t necessarily meant to be thrown away.
This was made possible by a proprietary port hidden under the base of the HomePod. This port is used by Apple for diagnostic purposes, but with the right tools (and a special adapter), it can also be used to connect the HomePod to a Mac.
Since Apple does not provide IPSW files for the original HomePod (since it does not have a USB port), restoring it requires OTA files in combination with the Apple TV firmware – after all, the HomePod also runs tvOS. The tool available on GitHub provides step-by-step instructions on how to restore the software of an original HomePod.
Nic says he plans to build and sell the USB adapter needed to connect the HomePod to the Mac. This will make it much easier for people to fix their broken HomePod at home. Those who are a little more savvy can try making their own adapter using a 3D printer. This model is available here.
Apple forces users to replace HomePods instead of repairing them
While it’s not exactly easy to repair a HomePod yourself, the point here is that there is a way to do it. However, Apple itself insists on charging users for out-of-warranty repairs when the HomePod software is bricked.
“The obvious question is why would Apple tell their customers it’s a hardware issue and then sell them replacements for something that’s so easy to restore even though it’s out of warranty? We LITERALLY just plug in a USB cable and hit restore. This should be criminal,” Nic said in a post on X.
For example, Apple charges $279 to replace an original HomePod that is out of warranty, while purchasing a brand new HomePod 2 costs $299.
Since Apple now has a self-service repair program, it would be nice if the company acknowledged that there is a way to salvage broken HomePods.
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