On Thursday, Siri and I had a shouting match ending in a hard reset and reconfiguring of HomePod. Fortunately, Apple Support procedures included a reset procedure that put HomePod back into factory fresh condition, updated the firmware to HomePodOS 14.1, and allowed me to reconfigure HomePod for use here in the study.
The 14.1 release adds support for HomePod Mini, configuration transfer, the Intercom feature Uncle Tim demonstrated, and more.
References
Save yourself a lot of trouble and use Genuine Apple Support Procedures rather that magazine articles or how-to click bait.
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208244 Resetting HomePod
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208714 HomePod Software Release Notes, like forever.
AirPlay Accepts Roon Connections
Apple appears to have resolved the AirPlay connection difficulties in HomePodOS 14.1 release. Before 14.1, HomePod AirPlay server would get horribly tangled and would refuse non-Apple connection requests, specifically from Roon Core. After much fowl language and a reset, HomePod appears to be sorted and is accepting Roon connections.
Siri still plays unwanted Apple Music
Siri still has the problem of playing unwanted music in an attempt to ingratiate herself with the user. Since I haven’t used Apple Music in 3 years, she’s at a bit of a loss as to what should be played. There is still no way to turn off Apple Music in HomePod OS or in MacOS. If you remove Apple Music, audio codec libraries are removed.
Checking HomePodOS Version
MacOS Home App lets you check the HomePodOS version fairly easily. Double click on the tile representing the offensive HomePod. It will open to show the device’s preferences pane. Scroll to the bottom where the device ID and software version information appears.
Single clicks will reward you with unwanted music chosen by Siri for your annoyance.
You can also reset or remove your HomePod here.
Dismal Manor Dispatches 
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