Learn how to connect your HomePod or HomePod mini to Samsung TV using Apple TV 4K. Step-by-step guide covering HDMI ARC/eARC setup, troubleshooting, and optimization tips.
Want to play your Samsung TV's audio through your HomePod speakers? You've likely discovered that connecting these two devices isn't as straightforward as pairing Bluetooth headphones. There's a specific reason for that limitation - and a reliable solution that transforms your HomePod into a powerful TV speaker system.
This guide walks you through every step of connecting your HomePod or HomePod mini to your Samsung TV, from understanding why you need specific equipment to configuring settings and fixing common audio sync issues. By the end, you'll have a fully functional home theater setup with crystal-clear audio routing through your Apple speakers.
No, HomePod cannot connect directly to Samsung TV. You'll need an Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) as an intermediary device. The Apple TV connects to your Samsung TV's HDMI ARC or eARC port, then wirelessly transmits audio to your HomePod speakers through the Apple Home app.
This setup takes approximately 15-30 minutes to complete, depending on your familiarity with the devices involved.
Here's what you'll need before starting your Samsung TV setup:
Apple TV 4K (2nd generation 2021 or 3rd generation 2022) - Starting at $129
HomePod ($299) or HomePod mini ($99)
Samsung TV with HDMI ARC (2017+) or eARC (2020+) support
High-Speed HDMI cable (HDMI 2.0 for ARC, HDMI 2.1 for eARC)
iPhone or iPad with the Home app installed
Same Wi-Fi network for all devices
This guide applies if you:
Own a Samsung Smart TV manufactured in 2017 or later
Have (or plan to purchase) an Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or newer)
Own a HomePod (2nd gen) or HomePod mini
Want to route all TV audio - including cable box, gaming consoles, and streaming apps - through your HomePod speakers
If your Samsung TV predates 2017, it likely lacks the ARC port required for this setup. Check the back of your TV for an HDMI port labeled "ARC" to confirm compatibility.
Understanding this limitation prevents frustration and helps you appreciate why the Apple TV solution works so well.
HomePod receives audio exclusively through AirPlay 2 - Apple's proprietary wireless audio protocol. It doesn't accept Bluetooth connections, optical audio, or direct HDMI input. This design choice ensures high-fidelity audio transmission but creates compatibility challenges with non-Apple devices.
Samsung TVs actually support AirPlay 2, but only as a receiver. Your Samsung TV can accept content streamed FROM an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. However, it cannot transmit audio TO AirPlay devices like HomePod. The protocol simply doesn't work in reverse on Samsung hardware.
Apple TV 4K solves this problem elegantly. It connects to your Samsung TV's HDMI ARC or eARC port, receiving audio that flows backward from the TV through the HDMI cable. The Apple TV then wirelessly transmits that audio to your HomePod via AirPlay 2.
The audio signal path looks like this:
Samsung TV → HDMI ARC/eARC → Apple TV 4K → Wi-Fi/AirPlay 2 → HomePod
This configuration means any audio source connected to your Samsung TV - cable boxes, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming apps - can play through your HomePod speakers. It's not limited to content from the Apple TV itself.
For general Samsung TV troubleshooting related to audio or connectivity, understanding this signal flow helps diagnose where problems might occur.
Getting the right equipment prevents compatibility headaches later. Here's exactly what you need and why each component matters.
Not all Apple TV models support ARC/eARC audio routing. You specifically need:
Model | Year | ARC Support | eARC Support | Model Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Apple TV 4K (2nd gen) | 2021 | ✓ | ✓ | A2169 |
Apple TV 4K (3rd gen) | 2022 | ✓ | ✓ | A2843 |
Apple TV 4K (3rd gen) Wi-Fi + Ethernet | 2022 | ✓ | ✓ | A2737 |
The Apple TV HD and first-generation Apple TV 4K (2017) do not support this feature - they lack the necessary audio return capability.
Current Pricing (February 2026):
Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi (64GB): $129
Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi + Ethernet (128GB): $149
The Ethernet model includes Thread support for smart home devices, which can improve network stability if you have a wired Samsung TV ethernet connection available.
Both HomePod models work with this setup, though they differ significantly in audio capabilities:
HomePod (2nd Generation) - $299
Full-range audio with custom high-excursion woofer
Five tweeters with directional control
Dolby Atmos and spatial audio support (with stereo pair)
Ideal for medium to large rooms
S7 chip with U1 ultra-wideband
HomePod mini - $99
Compact full-range driver and dual passive radiators
Computational audio for optimized sound
No Dolby Atmos support (even in stereo pair)
Best for small to medium rooms
S5 chip
For users experiencing Samsung TV volume too low issues, HomePod speakers deliver substantially louder, clearer audio than built-in TV speakers.
Your Samsung TV must have an HDMI port labeled "ARC" or "eARC":
Samsung TV Model Year | ARC Support | eARC Support | Typical ARC Port |
|---|---|---|---|
2017–2019 | ✓ | ✗ | HDMI 2 or 3 |
2020–2026 | ✓ | ✓ | HDMI 3 (usually) |
To identify your TV's capabilities, check the Samsung TV model number lookup information on the back of your TV or in Settings > Support > About This TV.
The HDMI cable matters more than you might expect:
For ARC (HDMI 2.0): High-Speed HDMI cable rated for 18Gbps
For eARC (HDMI 2.1): Ultra High-Speed HDMI cable rated for 48Gbps
If you want Dolby Atmos audio passthrough, eARC and an Ultra High-Speed cable are required. Standard ARC supports compressed audio formats but cannot handle uncompressed Dolby Atmos.
Budget Level | Equipment | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
Budget | Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi + HomePod mini | $228 |
Mid-Range | Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi + HomePod mini stereo pair | $327 |
Premium | Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi + Ethernet + HomePod stereo pair | $747 |
These prices assume you already own a compatible Samsung TV with working reset HDMI ports Samsung TV functionality.
Both ARC and eARC accomplish the same basic function - sending audio from your TV to another device through the HDMI cable. However, eARC offers significant advantages that matter for home theater audio.
ARC (Audio Return Channel) has been part of the HDMI 1.4 specification since 2009. It allows your TV to send audio back through the same HDMI cable that carries video, eliminating the need for separate optical audio cables.
ARC transmits audio at up to 1Mbps, supporting:
Stereo audio (2.0)
Compressed 5.1 surround (Dolby Digital, DTS)
PCM stereo
For most TV shows and casual viewing, ARC provides perfectly adequate audio quality.
eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) arrived with HDMI 2.1 in 2017. It dramatically increases bandwidth to 37Mbps, enabling:
Uncompressed 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound
Dolby Atmos (TrueHD and MAT)
DTS:X
High-bitrate audio up to 24-bit/192kHz
Samsung TVs manufactured in 2020 and later typically include eARC support on at least one HDMI port.
Feature | ARC | eARC |
|---|---|---|
Bandwidth | 1Mbps | 37Mbps |
Dolby Atmos | Lossy only (DD+) | Full TrueHD |
Uncompressed audio | No | Yes |
Samsung TV support | 2017+ | 2020+ |
Cable requirement | High-Speed HDMI | Ultra High-Speed HDMI |
For HomePod use specifically:
Full-size HomePod stereo pair: eARC enables true Dolby Atmos playback
Single HomePod: eARC provides marginally better audio quality
HomePod mini (single or pair): eARC makes no practical difference - HomePod mini doesn't support Atmos
If you're experiencing Samsung TV audio out of sync issues, eARC generally provides more stable audio timing than standard ARC due to its dedicated audio channel.
Look at the back of your Samsung TV for HDMI ports labeled "ARC" or "eARC/ARC." On most models, this is HDMI 3. Some newer Samsung TVs with One Connect boxes have the ARC port integrated into the connection box rather than the TV panel.
Access your Samsung TV sound settings to verify eARC capability: Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > HDMI eARC Mode. If this option exists, your TV supports eARC.
Before connecting your Apple TV 4K, you'll need to configure several Samsung TV settings. The exact menu paths vary by model year, so I've included year-specific instructions.
Outdated firmware can cause ARC/eARC connectivity issues. Complete your Samsung TV firmware update before proceeding:
Press the Home button on your Samsung remote
Navigate to Settings > Support > Software Update
Select Update Now
Wait for the update to complete and the TV to restart
Samsung calls HDMI-CEC "Anynet+." This protocol allows devices to communicate and control each other through HDMI. It must be enabled for ARC/eARC to function.
2025-2026 Samsung TVs: Settings > All Settings > General & Privacy > External Device Manager > Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) > On
2023-2024 Samsung TVs: Settings > All Settings > Connection > External Device Manager > Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) > On
2022 Samsung TVs: Settings > General & Privacy > External Device Manager > Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) > On
2017-2021 Samsung TVs: Settings > General > External Device Manager > Anynet+ > On
If your Samsung TV supports eARC:
Press Home > Settings
Navigate to Sound > Expert Settings
Select HDMI eARC Mode
Set to Auto
The default setting is Off, which limits you to standard ARC even if your TV has eARC hardware.
For optimal audio quality:
Settings > Sound > Expert Settings
Select Digital Output Audio Format
Choose Auto or Pass-Through
"Auto" lets the TV negotiate the best format with connected devices. "Pass-Through" sends audio unprocessed, which some setups prefer for Dolby Atmos content.
After enabling these options, restart your Samsung TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds. This ensures all HDMI handshake protocols reset properly.
If you encounter Samsung TV no signal messages after connecting the Apple TV, double-check that Anynet+ is enabled and the HDMI cable is firmly seated in both devices.
For a comprehensive overview of all options, review your Samsung TV picture settings and sound settings together to optimize the viewing experience.
With your Samsung TV configured, you're ready to connect and set up your Apple TV 4K with HomePod audio output.
Locate the ARC/eARC HDMI port on your Samsung TV (usually HDMI 3)
Connect one end of your HDMI cable to the Apple TV 4K's HDMI port
Connect the other end to your Samsung TV's ARC/eARC port
Power on both the Apple TV and Samsung TV
Switch your TV's input to the HDMI port where Apple TV is connected
If the Apple TV powers on but you see a blank screen, the TV may need a moment to detect the signal. Some users report that Samsung TV frozen states can occur during initial HDMI handshakes - wait 30 seconds before troubleshooting.
Both your Apple TV and HomePod must be assigned to the same "room" in the Apple Home app for home theater audio to work.
On your iPhone or iPad:
Open the Home app
Tap and hold on your HomePod tile
Scroll down and tap the Settings gear icon
Under "Room," verify or assign it to a specific room (e.g., "Living Room")
Repeat for your Apple TV - both devices must be in the identical room
If you have two HomePods or two HomePod minis, create a stereo pair first (covered in the next section), then assign the pair to the room.
On Apple TV:
From the Home Screen, select Settings
Navigate to Video and Audio
Select Audio Output
Under "Default Audio Output," select your HomePod or HomePod stereo pair
You'll see a prompt asking to use HomePod as TV speakers - select Use as TV Speakers
Still in Apple TV Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output:
Scroll to Audio Return Channel
Select Play Television Audio
The status should change to "On (ARC)" or "On (eARC)"
This setting allows audio from your Samsung TV - including cable boxes, gaming consoles, and built-in apps - to route through the Apple TV to your HomePod.
To control HomePod volume with your TV remote:
Settings > Remotes and Devices > Volume Control
Select TV via IR or Auto
This allows the Samsung TV remote's volume buttons to adjust HomePod audio levels through the Apple TV.
If you notice any lip-sync issues:
Settings > Video and Audio > Calibrate > Wireless Audio Sync
Hold your iPhone near the TV and follow the on-screen instructions
The calibration uses your iPhone's microphone to measure and correct audio delay
Play content from multiple sources to confirm:
Apple TV apps (Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+)
Samsung TV's built-in apps (switch input to TV, open an app)
External devices (cable box, gaming console)
If Samsung TV channels not working audio-wise but Apple TV content plays fine, double-check that Audio Return Channel shows "On (ARC)" or "On (eARC)" in Apple TV settings.
A stereo pair delivers significantly better audio than a single speaker. You get true left/right channel separation, wider soundstage, and with full-size HomePods, genuine Dolby Atmos support.
Two identical HomePods OR two identical HomePod minis
You cannot mix HomePod with HomePod mini
Both speakers must run the same software version
Both speakers must be on the same Wi-Fi network
On iPhone or iPad:
Open the Home app
Tap and hold on one of your HomePod speakers
Scroll down and tap Settings (gear icon)
Tap Create Stereo Pair
Select the second HomePod when prompted
Assign which speaker is Left and which is Right
Tap Done
The pairing process takes about a minute. Afterward, both speakers appear as a single "stereo pair" in the Home app.
For best results with TV audio:
Place speakers 2-4 feet on either side of your Samsung TV
Position them at ear level when seated (use stands if needed)
Angle speakers slightly toward the listening position
Keep speakers at least 6 inches from walls to prevent bass distortion
Maintain equal distance from both speakers to your seating area
Full-size HomePods have room sensing technology that automatically adjusts audio output based on their position. HomePod minis lack this feature, making precise placement more important.
For Dolby Atmos with a full-size HomePod stereo pair:
Ensure your Apple TV is connected via eARC (not standard ARC)
Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Format
Set to Dolby Atmos (not "Auto")
Audio Output should show your stereo pair
HomePod mini pairs cannot decode or render Dolby Atmos - content will play in stereo only regardless of settings.
For users interested in viewing multiple sources, Samsung TV split screen or multi-view features work with HomePod audio, though only one audio source plays at a time.
One of the most valuable aspects of this setup is routing ALL TV audio through HomePod - not just Apple TV content.
When you enable "Play Television Audio" in Apple TV's Audio Return Channel settings, a bidirectional audio path opens. Any audio your Samsung TV outputs gets sent backward through the HDMI cable to the Apple TV, which then transmits it wirelessly to HomePod.
This means your HomePod speakers play audio from:
Streaming apps on Samsung TV (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+)
Cable or satellite boxes connected to other HDMI ports
Gaming consoles (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X)
Blu-ray players and media devices
Over-the-air antenna broadcasts
USB media played through Samsung TV
Connect your cable box, gaming console, or other devices to any available HDMI port on your Samsung TV (not the ARC port - that's reserved for Apple TV).
Example Configuration:
HDMI 1: Cable/Satellite Box
HDMI 2: PlayStation 5
HDMI 3 (ARC): Apple TV 4K
HDMI 4: Blu-ray Player
When you switch inputs on your Samsung TV, audio automatically routes through the Apple TV to your HomePod speakers.
Gaming through HomePod works, but wireless audio introduces some latency - typically 40-100ms. For casual gaming and single-player experiences, most users find this acceptable.
For competitive multiplayer or rhythm games where audio timing is critical:
Enable Game Mode on your Samsung TV (Settings > General > External Device Manager > Game Mode)
Consider using wired headphones directly connected to the controller for competitive play
If game mode keeps turning off, there may be a conflict with other TV settings or HDMI-CEC commands.
If you also use a Firestick, Roku, or Chromecast connected to your Samsung TV, audio from these devices routes through HomePod without additional configuration. The ARC connection captures all TV audio regardless of the active input.
However, if your Firestick not working Samsung TV shows video but no audio through HomePod, verify that:
The streaming device isn't set to output 5.1 audio (try stereo)
Your Samsung TV's Audio Format is set to PCM or Auto
If you encounter Samsung TV input source problem issues when switching between devices, a simple power cycle of the Apple TV often resolves audio routing confusion.
Audio synchronization problems are the most common complaint with this setup. Here's how to diagnose and fix different types of lag.
Type 1: Lip Sync Delay (Video-Audio Offset) Audio consistently trails video by a fixed amount. Dialogue doesn't match lip movements. This is the most common issue.
Type 2: Initial Audio Delay Sound starts 1-3 seconds after pressing play, then stays synchronized. Common with Dolby Atmos content.
Type 3: Variable Sync Drift Audio and video slowly drift apart over time. Requires periodic pausing to resync.
This should be your first troubleshooting step:
On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio
Select Calibrate > Wireless Audio Sync
Place your iPhone near the TV (within 2 feet)
Tap Continue on the iPhone notification
Follow the on-screen calibration process
The process plays test tones and uses your iPhone's microphone to measure the delay between video frame output and audio arriving at the measurement point. Apple TV then compensates accordingly.
Your Samsung TV has its own audio delay compensation:
Settings > Sound > Expert Settings
Select Digital Output Audio Delay
Adjust in 10ms increments
If audio arrives before video (rare), increase the delay. If audio lags behind video (common), you'll need to use Apple TV's calibration since Samsung's setting only adds delay, not removes it.
For persistent Samsung TV lip sync delay issues, try setting the TV's Digital Output Audio Delay to 0, then rely solely on Apple TV's Wireless Audio Sync for correction.
Wireless audio transmission quality depends heavily on your Wi-Fi network:
Use 5GHz Wi-Fi instead of 2.4GHz for all devices
Position your router within 30 feet of your HomePod
Reduce interference from other wireless devices
Consider a dedicated Wi-Fi 6 network for streaming devices
If your Samsung TV buffering or showing Samsung TV streaming lag, network issues likely affect HomePod audio too.
Apple TV has a "Reduce Latency" option that prioritizes audio speed over quality:
Settings > Video and Audio
Find Reduce Latency
Try toggling it ON if you experience lag with non-Atmos content
Note: This may disable Dolby Atmos for some content
Some users report better sync with standard ARC than eARC, or vice versa:
On Samsung TV: Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > HDMI eARC Mode
Set to Off to force ARC mode
Test audio sync
If worse, return setting to Auto
When audio sync issues persist, restart devices in this specific order:
Power off Samsung TV completely (unplug for 30 seconds)
Restart Apple TV (Settings > System > Restart)
Restart HomePod (Home app > long-press HomePod > Settings > Restart HomePod)
Power on Samsung TV
Wait 60 seconds for all connections to establish
If your Samsung TV so slow or sluggish in general, this may indicate processing issues that affect audio timing.
Ensure every device runs the latest software:
Apple TV: Settings > System > Software Updates
HomePod: Home app > long-press HomePod > Settings > check for updates
Samsung TV: Settings > Support > Software Update
Apple frequently releases audio sync improvements in tvOS updates.
When HomePod won't play TV audio at all, work through this systematic diagnostic process.
Check 1: Verify Physical HDMI Connection
Confirm Apple TV is connected to the ARC/eARC labeled HDMI port
Try a different HDMI cable
Test the cable with another device to rule out cable failure
If you see Samsung TV blank screen no signal messages, the HDMI handshake has failed entirely.
Check 2: Verify Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) is Enabled Navigate to your Samsung TV's External Device Manager and confirm Anynet+ is On. Some TV updates can reset this setting.
Check 3: Verify Room Assignment In the Home app, ensure both Apple TV and HomePod show the same room assignment. Devices in different "rooms" cannot share home theater audio.
Check 4: Verify Default Audio Output On Apple TV: Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output. The default should be your HomePod, not "TV Speakers."
Check 5: Verify Audio Return Channel Status Under Audio Output, check that Audio Return Channel shows "On (ARC)" or "On (eARC)" - not "Off" or unavailable.
For general Samsung TV troubleshooting, these HDMI and audio settings are the most common failure points.
If audio cuts out randomly:
Check for Wi-Fi interference from microwaves, cordless phones, or neighboring networks
Move HomePod closer to your router
Restart your router
Ensure HomePod isn't in a metal enclosure or behind large objects
If HomePod doesn't appear in Apple TV's audio output list:
Confirm HomePod is set up and responding to Siri commands
Verify HomePod and Apple TV use the same Apple ID
Check both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network
Remove HomePod from the Home app and set it up again
If Audio Return Channel stays "Off" or unavailable:
Reset HDMI ports Samsung TV by unplugging the TV for 2 minutes
Try a different HDMI cable (certified for your connection type)
Factory reset the Apple TV (Settings > System > Reset)
Contact Samsung support if the ARC port may be defective
HDMI-CEC (Anynet+) can cause devices to power each other on or off. If your Samsung TV turns on by itself when HomePod plays audio:
Settings > General & Privacy > External Device Manager
Find "Auto Power Off" or similar CEC options
Disable individual CEC features while keeping Anynet+ enabled
This preserves ARC functionality while stopping unwanted power commands.
Both HomePod models work with this setup, but they offer meaningfully different experiences for TV audio.
HomePod (2nd Generation) The full-size HomePod delivers genuinely impressive TV audio. Its 4-inch high-excursion woofer produces deep, room-filling bass that built-in TV speakers simply cannot match. Five tweeters create a wide soundstage with clear dialogue even during action scenes.
In stereo pair configuration, two HomePods create a convincing surround sound effect with proper channel separation. The computational audio processing analyzes the room and adjusts output accordingly.
HomePod mini HomePod mini punches above its weight for a $99 speaker, but it has physical limitations. The smaller driver produces less bass extension and lower maximum volume. For bedrooms or small living rooms, a single HomePod mini improves dramatically over TV speakers.
A HomePod mini stereo pair ($198 total) provides left/right separation and doubles the output. However, it still lacks the bass response and overall presence of even a single full-size HomePod.
This is the key differentiator for home theater use:
Configuration | Dolby Atmos | Surround Sound |
|---|---|---|
Single HomePod | No | Simulated |
HomePod Stereo Pair | Yes | 5.1/7.1 rendering |
Single HomePod mini | No | No |
HomePod mini Stereo Pair | No | Stereo only |
If Dolby Atmos matters to you, the full-size HomePod stereo pair is the only option.
Room Size | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
Small bedroom (under 150 sq ft) | Single HomePod mini | Sufficient volume, saves space |
Medium room (150-300 sq ft) | HomePod mini pair or single HomePod | Good balance of quality and value |
Large living room (300+ sq ft) | HomePod stereo pair | Full room coverage, immersive audio |
Setup | Total Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Single HomePod mini | $99 | Budget setup, small rooms |
HomePod mini stereo pair | $198 | Better stereo on a budget |
Single HomePod | $299 | Quality audio, medium rooms |
HomePod stereo pair | $598 | Full home theater experience |
Choose HomePod mini if:
Budget is a primary concern
Your room is smaller than 250 square feet
You mainly watch dialogue-heavy content
Dolby Atmos isn't important to you
Choose full-size HomePod if:
You want the best possible audio quality
Dolby Atmos and surround sound matter
You have a medium to large room
You watch a lot of movies and action content
For users exploring other speaker options, you might also consider whether to connect Sonos to Samsung TV as an alternative ecosystem.
Users frequently ask whether there's a way to avoid purchasing Apple TV 4K. Here's an honest assessment of the alternatives.
There is no fully functional way to use HomePod as a Samsung TV speaker without Apple TV 4K. The alternatives below are workarounds with significant limitations - not true solutions.
You can AirPlay audio from your iPhone to HomePod while simultaneously casting video to your Samsung TV:
Open a streaming app on your iPhone (Netflix, Disney+, etc.)
Cast video to your Samsung TV using AirPlay
Separately send audio to HomePod via Control Center
Limitations:
Audio and video frequently desync
Drains iPhone battery during viewing
Doesn't work for cable boxes, gaming, or built-in TV apps
Requires constant phone involvement
You can connect MacBook to Samsung TV via AirPlay for video while routing audio to HomePod:
Mirror your Mac screen to Samsung TV
Set Mac audio output to HomePod in System Settings > Sound
Play content on your Mac
Limitations:
Requires Mac to be running during all TV viewing
Some streaming services block screen mirroring
Adds complexity without true integration
No support for TV-connected devices
Advanced users can set up Homebridge with custom plugins to create limited integration:
Requires technical knowledge and dedicated hardware (Raspberry Pi)
Configuration is complex and may break with updates
Still doesn't enable true ARC audio routing
Not recommended for average users
If your goal is hearing all TV audio through HomePod with reliable synchronization and no constant management, Apple TV 4K is the only path that actually works. The $129 investment delivers seamless integration that workarounds cannot replicate.
If you don't want to buy Apple TV 4K, consider these alternatives that connect directly to Samsung TV:
Soundbars: Hook up soundbar to Samsung TV directly via HDMI ARC
Wired speakers: Connect external speakers Samsung TV via optical or analog outputs
Wireless soundbars: Many connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi without intermediary devices
These options don't leverage your HomePod investment, but they provide simpler TV audio solutions if Apple TV isn't in your plans.
No, HomePod cannot connect directly to Samsung TV. HomePod only receives audio through AirPlay 2, not Bluetooth, HDMI, or optical connections. Samsung TVs can receive AirPlay content but cannot transmit audio to AirPlay devices. You need an Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) connected to your Samsung TV's HDMI ARC or eARC port to bridge this gap and route TV audio to HomePod.
You need an Apple TV 4K 2nd generation (2021) or Apple TV 4K 3rd generation (2022). These models support HDMI ARC and eARC, which enable receiving audio from your TV. The Apple TV HD and original Apple TV 4K (2017) do not support this feature. Current pricing starts at $129 for the Wi-Fi model and $149 for the Wi-Fi + Ethernet model.
Yes, HomePod mini works with Samsung TV when using Apple TV 4K as an intermediary. A single HomePod mini or stereo pair can serve as your TV speakers. However, HomePod mini does not support Dolby Atmos - even in a stereo pair configuration. For most users watching TV shows and movies, HomePod mini delivers noticeably better audio than built-in TV speakers despite this limitation.
Yes, when properly configured with Apple TV 4K connected to your Samsung TV's ARC/eARC port, HomePod plays audio from all TV sources. This includes cable/satellite boxes, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming devices, and Samsung's built-in apps. Enable "Play Television Audio" under Audio Return Channel in Apple TV settings to activate this feature.
Audio delay typically results from one of several causes: misconfigured Wireless Audio Sync calibration, TV audio processing settings, network latency, or format switching delays with Dolby Atmos content. Run the Wireless Audio Sync calibration in Apple TV settings first. If delay persists, check your Samsung TV's Digital Output Audio Delay setting and ensure your network provides stable 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity to all devices.
A single HomePod works perfectly well as a TV speaker and delivers excellent audio quality. Two HomePods configured as a stereo pair provide true left/right channel separation, wider soundstage, and - with full-size HomePods only - Dolby Atmos support. For most users, a single HomePod significantly improves TV audio. A stereo pair is recommended for dedicated home theater setups or larger rooms.
Dolby Atmos support requires three conditions: a full-size HomePod stereo pair (not HomePod mini), an eARC connection between Apple TV and Samsung TV, and content mastered in Dolby Atmos format. With all requirements met, the HomePod stereo pair renders spatial audio with height effects. Single HomePods and all HomePod mini configurations output stereo audio regardless of source format.
Budget setup with Apple TV 4K ($129) and single HomePod mini ($99) totals $228. A mid-range configuration with Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini stereo pair costs $327. Premium setup with Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi + Ethernet ($149) and full-size HomePod stereo pair ($598) totals $747. These prices assume you already own a compatible Samsung TV with HDMI ARC support.
Samsung TVs from 2017 onward include HDMI ARC support on at least one port. Models from 2020 onward typically include eARC for higher-quality audio transmission. If your Samsung TV predates 2017, it likely lacks ARC capability and won't work with this setup. Check your TV's HDMI ports for an "ARC" label or review your model's specifications to confirm compatibility.
No, you cannot simultaneously output to both Samsung TV speakers and HomePod. When HomePod is set as the default audio output for Apple TV, all sound routes exclusively to HomePod. To switch back to TV speakers, change the Default Audio Output in Apple TV settings to "TV Speakers." Some users set up Siri Shortcuts to toggle between outputs quickly.
Connecting your HomePod to Samsung TV requires an Apple TV 4K as the bridge between two ecosystems that don't naturally communicate. While this adds cost and complexity, the result is a genuinely excellent TV audio experience that leverages your existing Apple speakers.
Here's what to remember:
The essentials: HomePod cannot connect directly to Samsung TV. Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) is required. Connect Apple TV to your Samsung TV's ARC or eARC port, configure Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC), and assign both devices to the same room in the Home app.
For best results: Use eARC if your TV supports it, run Wireless Audio Sync calibration, and consider a stereo pair for larger rooms or Dolby Atmos content.
When issues arise: Most problems stem from incorrect room assignments, disabled Anynet+, or audio sync calibration needs. The troubleshooting sections above address virtually every common issue.
Once configured, this setup lets you enjoy all your TV content - streaming apps, cable, gaming, everything - through the impressive audio quality of your HomePod speakers. The initial setup effort pays dividends every time you watch.
For those new to Samsung TVs, our Samsung TV setup guide covers initial configuration. If you're still learning your remote, check out how to use Samsung TV remote for all available functions including voice control and smart features.
Bookmark this guide for reference during your setup - you'll likely want to revisit specific sections as you work through each configuration step.