These minor updates for Apple TV and HomePod models include unspecified general performance and stability improvements to the tvOS operating system.
Apple publicly released a minor iOS 16.3.1 update to its line of Apple TV set-top boxes and first and second generation HomePod and HomePod mini smart speakers on Monday, February 6, 2023.
What’s new in iOS 16.3.1 for Apple TV and HomePod?
The updates increase the build number to 20K661. As mentioned, the 16.3.1 update is available for the original HomePod, Apple TV HD, and all generations of Apple TV 4K. The release notes accompanying them are vague, only mentioning that “software version 16.3.1 includes general performance and stability improvements”.
The same one-line changelog is available on the Apple website.
The updates do not appear to include any emergency fixes for zero-day exploits or fixes for major vulnerabilities. The support document on Apple’s website that lists the iOS 16.3.1 security features does not mention any security fixes.
How to Install iOS 16.3.1 on HomePod
You can install the latest HomePod software by selecting the software update option in the Home settings of the Home app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Open the Home app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Click the. .. (ellipsis) icon in the upper right corner and select “Main Settings”.
- Select Software Update from the list.
- Click “Update”to download and install iOS 16.3.1.
Do not turn off your HomePod while the update is being installed. When the white light on the top of your HomePod stops spinning, the setup is complete and you can start using your smart speaker again.
How to update Apple TV to tvOS 16.3.1
You can update your Apple TV HD or Apple TV 4K to the latest tvOS software by selecting the update software option in the Settings app.
- Open the Settings app on Apple TV.
- Select System from the root list.
- Select the “Software Updates”entry.
- Click “Update Software”.
- Click Download and Install.
After your Apple TV downloads the latest tvOS update, it will restart to prepare the update and then install it. Do not turn off your device while the update is being installed. When the update is complete, Apple TV will automatically restart again.