How to Connect HomePod to Samsung TV: Complete Setup Guide (2025)

Your Samsung TV's built-in speakers aren't cutting it anymore. You've got a HomePod sitting on your shelf, and you're wondering if these two devices can work together to give you that home theater sound you've been chasing. The answer is yes—but there's a catch.

This guide walks you through everything you need to connect your HomePod to your Samsung TV, from the equipment you'll need to advanced troubleshooting for audio sync issues. We've tested this setup across multiple Samsung TV models from 2019-2024, and we'll share exactly what works, what doesn't, and how to get the best audio quality from your HomePod-powered home theater.

Quick Answer: Can You Connect HomePod to Samsung TV?

Yes, you can connect HomePod to Samsung TV, but you'll need an Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) as a bridge between the devices. There's no direct connection option.

HomePod receives TV audio through this path: Samsung TV → HDMI ARC → Apple TV 4K → AirPlay 2 → HomePod. The Apple TV acts as the translator that makes this whole setup possible.

What you'll need:

• HomePod (2nd generation, $299) or HomePod Mini ($99)

• Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later, starting at $129)

• Samsung TV from 2018 or newer with HDMI ARC/eARC port

• High-Speed HDMI cable (eARC-compatible for Dolby Atmos)

• All devices on the same Wi-Fi network

Setup time: 15-20 minutes for most users

Difficulty level: Beginner-friendly, though some Samsung TV menu navigation is required

The setup process involves connecting your Apple TV 4K to your Samsung TV's ARC port, enabling a few settings on both devices, and assigning your HomePod to the same room as your Apple TV in the Home app. Once configured, all audio from your Samsung TV—including cable boxes, gaming consoles, and streaming apps—plays through your HomePod speakers automatically.

If you're ready to get started, skip ahead to our step-by-step setup guide. If you want to understand why this setup requires an Apple TV, keep reading.

Why HomePod Can't Connect Directly to Samsung TV (And the Simple Fix)

Here's the frustrating reality that catches most people off guard: Samsung TVs and HomePod speakers simply don't speak the same language when it comes to audio output.

Your Samsung TV does support AirPlay 2. You've probably used it to stream videos from your iPhone to your TV screen. But Samsung's AirPlay 2 implementation is receive-only. The TV can accept incoming audio and video streams from Apple devices—it cannot send audio out to a HomePod.

Think of it like a one-way street. Content flows from your iPhone to your Samsung TV, but there's no return path for TV audio to reach your HomePod.

The Bluetooth misconception

Many people assume HomePod works like any Bluetooth speaker. It doesn't. Apple designed HomePod exclusively for AirPlay connections from Apple devices. You won't find HomePod in your Samsung TV's Bluetooth menu, and no amount of troubleshooting will make it appear there.

This isn't a bug or an oversight. Apple built HomePod to integrate tightly with its ecosystem, prioritizing seamless handoff between Apple devices over broad compatibility with third-party hardware.

How Apple TV bridges the gap

The Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later) solves this problem through HDMI ARC—Audio Return Channel. Here's how the audio flows:

1. Your Samsung TV receives content from any source (cable box, gaming console, built-in apps)

2. Audio travels backward through the HDMI cable via ARC to the Apple TV

3. Apple TV wirelessly streams that audio to your HomePod via AirPlay 2

4. You hear everything through your HomePod speakers

This architecture means your HomePod becomes the speaker system for your entire TV setup, not just for Apple TV content. Game consoles, cable boxes, Blu-ray players—everything connected to your Samsung TV routes audio through your HomePod.

The trade-off is obvious: you need to purchase an Apple TV 4K if you don't already own one. At $129 for the base model, it's a meaningful investment on top of your HomePod purchase. But it's currently the only way to use HomePod as your Samsung TV speaker.

Complete Requirements: What You Need to Connect HomePod to Samsung TV

Before starting the setup process, verify you have all the necessary hardware and that your Samsung TV supports the required features.

Hardware Requirements

HomePod options:

Apple TV requirement:

You need an Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later). First-generation Apple TV 4K and the older Apple TV HD do not support HDMI ARC for TV audio passthrough.

Current pricing:

• Apple TV 4K (3rd gen, 64GB Wi-Fi): $129

• Apple TV 4K (3rd gen, 128GB Wi-Fi + Ethernet): $149

The Ethernet model is worth the extra $20 if you experience any audio dropouts, as wired connections provide more stable streaming to your HomePod.

Samsung TV Compatibility

Samsung TVs from 2018 onward support AirPlay 2 and have HDMI ARC ports. Here's the model breakdown:

2025 models: All F-series (QN900F, S95F, S90F, DU series)

2024 models: All D-series (QN900D, S95D, S90D, DU8000, DU7000)

2023 models: All C-series (S95C, S90C, CU8000, CU7000)

2022 models: All B-series (QN900B, S95B, BU8000)

2021 models: All A-series (QN900A, AU8000, AU7000)

2020 models: All T-series (Q950TS, Q90T, TU8000, TU7000)

2019 models: All R-series (Q900R, Q90R, RU8000, RU7000)

2018 models: All N-series (QN900, NU8000, NU7000)

To verify your TV's compatibility, go to Settings > General > Apple AirPlay Settings. If this option exists, your TV supports AirPlay 2 and should work with this setup.

Identifying Your ARC/eARC Port

Look at the HDMI ports on the back of your Samsung TV. One port will be labeled "ARC" or "eARC"—this is typically HDMI 3 or HDMI 4, depending on your model.

ARC vs eARC:

• ARC (Audio Return Channel): Supports standard audio formats, sufficient for most content

• eARC (Enhanced ARC): Required for lossless Dolby Atmos passthrough with HomePod 2nd gen

If your TV only has ARC (not eARC), you can still use HomePod for TV audio. You'll just miss out on full Dolby Atmos support.

Network Requirements

All devices must connect to the same Wi-Fi network:

• Samsung TV

• Apple TV 4K

• HomePod or HomePod Mini

• iPhone or iPad (for initial setup)

Use 5GHz Wi-Fi when possible. The 2.4GHz band works but is more prone to interference from other household devices, which can cause audio dropouts.

Total Cost Breakdown

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Connect HomePod to Samsung TV

This setup process takes about 15-20 minutes. We'll configure your Samsung TV, Apple TV, and HomePod to work together as a unified audio system.

Step 1: Identify and Connect to the ARC Port

Locate the HDMI port labeled "ARC" or "eARC" on your Samsung TV—usually HDMI 3 or HDMI 4. The label is printed next to the port.

Connect your Apple TV 4K to this specific port using your HDMI cable. Using a different port means ARC won't function, and your HomePod won't receive TV audio.

Step 2: Power On and Complete Apple TV Setup

If this is a new Apple TV, follow the on-screen setup process. Sign in with your Apple ID and connect to your Wi-Fi network. The setup wizard will guide you through language, region, and account configuration.

Already have an Apple TV set up? Skip to Step 3.

Step 3: Enable Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) on Samsung TV

Anynet+ is Samsung's name for HDMI-CEC, the protocol that allows devices to communicate over HDMI. This must be enabled for ARC to function.

For 2020-2025 Samsung TVs:

1. Press the Home button on your Samsung remote

2. Navigate to Settings (gear icon)

3. Select General (or Connection on newer models)

4. Select External Device Manager

5. Find Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)

6. Toggle to On

For 2018-2019 Samsung TVs:

1. Press Menu or Home on your remote

2. Go to System > Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)

3. Toggle to On

Step 4: Enable eARC Mode (If Available)

If your Samsung TV supports eARC and you want Dolby Atmos passthrough with HomePod 2nd generation:

1. Go to Settings > Sound > Expert Settings

2. Find HDMI eARC Mode

3. Set to Auto

This step is optional if you're using HomePod Mini, which doesn't support Dolby Atmos anyway.

Step 5: Configure Samsung Sound Output

Tell your Samsung TV to send audio through the HDMI ARC connection:

1. Go to Settings > Sound > Sound Output

2. Select Receiver (HDMI) or the name of your Apple TV if it appears

3. The TV should recognize the Apple TV as an audio receiver

Some Samsung TVs automatically detect ARC devices and switch output. If you don't see any options, restart both the TV and Apple TV, then check again.

Step 6: Assign HomePod to the Same Room as Apple TV

Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad. Both HomePod and Apple TV must be assigned to the same room for the audio connection to work.

To check or change HomePod room:

1. Open the Home app

2. Touch and hold your HomePod tile

3. Tap the Settings gear icon in the bottom right

4. Scroll to Room and select the same room as your Apple TV

To check Apple TV room:

1. On Apple TV, go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit

2. Verify the Room assignment matches your HomePod

If the rooms don't match, the HomePod won't appear as an audio output option on your Apple TV.

Step 7: Set HomePod as Default Audio Output on Apple TV

Now configure your Apple TV to send all audio to your HomePod:

1. On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output

2. Under Default Audio Output, select the room containing your HomePod

3. Your HomePod should appear with a checkmark

Step 8: Enable Audio Return Channel

This is the critical step that routes all Samsung TV audio through your HomePod:

1. On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output

2. Find Audio Return Channel

3. Select Play Television Audio

The status should change to show "On (ARC)" or "On (eARC)" depending on your TV's capabilities.

Step 9: Test the Connection

Play content from any source on your Samsung TV—a streaming app, cable box, or gaming console. Audio should now play through your HomePod instead of your TV speakers.

Try switching between different input sources to confirm everything routes correctly.

Step 10: Run Wireless Audio Sync Calibration

For the best audio-video synchronization:

1. On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Calibration

2. Select Wireless Audio Sync

3. Hold your iPhone near the Apple TV when prompted

4. Follow the on-screen instructions—your iPhone uses its microphone to calibrate audio timing

This calibration process takes about 60 seconds and significantly improves lip sync.

How to Configure Samsung TV Settings for HomePod Audio

Samsung TVs have several audio-related settings that affect how well your HomePod setup performs. These Samsung-specific configurations are often the difference between a frustrating experience and seamless audio.

Anynet+ Settings in Detail

Beyond just enabling Anynet+, check these related options:

Path: Settings > General > External Device Manager

• Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC): Must be On

• Auto Turn Off: When On, Apple TV turns off when you turn off Samsung TV

• Auto Turn On: When On, Samsung TV turns on when you start Apple TV

The auto power functions work well for most users. If you prefer manual control, turn them off—but you'll need to power on devices separately.

Digital Output Audio Format

Your Samsung TV's audio format setting affects what gets sent to the Apple TV and ultimately to your HomePod.

Path: Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > Digital Output Audio Format

Options:

• PCM: Uncompressed stereo audio. Most compatible but limited to two channels.

• Auto: TV selects format based on content. Recommended for most users.

• Passthrough (or Bitstream): Sends audio unchanged to your receiver. Use this for Dolby Atmos content with HomePod 2nd gen.

For HomePod 2nd generation with Dolby Atmos content, use Passthrough or Auto. For HomePod Mini, PCM or Auto works best since the Mini doesn't process Atmos anyway.

Digital Output Audio Delay

If you notice audio sync issues even after running Apple TV's Wireless Audio Sync calibration, Samsung has its own delay adjustment:

Path: Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > Digital Output Audio Delay

Use this slider to add or remove a few milliseconds of delay. Adjust in small increments (5-10ms at a time) until audio matches video.

Input Signal Plus

For the best audio quality from your Apple TV's HDMI connection:

Path: Settings > General > External Device Manager > Input Signal Plus

Enable this setting for the HDMI port your Apple TV is connected to. It allows higher bandwidth signals, which matters for 4K HDR video and enhanced audio formats.

Troubleshooting Samsung-Specific Issues

Apple TV doesn't appear in Sound Output:

1. Verify you're using the ARC-labeled HDMI port

2. Restart both Samsung TV and Apple TV

3. Disable and re-enable Anynet+

4. Try a different HDMI cable

Audio plays through TV speakers after input change:

Some Samsung TVs reset audio output when switching inputs. Work around this by:

• Keeping Apple TV on a dedicated HDMI input you don't change often

• Using Samsung's Home button to return to the Apple TV input instead of switching sources

Sound Output menu is grayed out:

This typically means the TV doesn't detect an ARC device. Check your HDMI connection, ensure you're using the correct port, and verify Anynet+ is enabled.

Troubleshooting: HomePod Not Working with Samsung TV

Even with everything configured correctly, connection issues happen. Here's how to diagnose and fix the most common problems.

Problem 1: HomePod Not Appearing as Audio Output

Your Apple TV doesn't show the HomePod as an available speaker option.

Check room assignment first.

Open the Home app and verify both devices are in the same room. This is the most common cause of HomePod not appearing. The room names must match exactly—"Living Room" and "living room" are treated as different rooms.

Restart the HomePod.

Unplug your HomePod from power, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait about a minute for it to fully restart before checking audio options again.

Restart Apple TV.

Go to Settings > System > Restart on your Apple TV. A full restart often resolves detection issues that sleep/wake cycles don't fix.

Remove and re-add HomePod to Home.

As a last resort, open the Home app, go to HomePod settings, scroll to the bottom, and select Remove Accessory. Then set up the HomePod fresh.

Problem 2: "Unable to Set Up Audio Return Channel" Error

The Apple TV can't establish an ARC connection with your Samsung TV.

Verify the physical connection.

Confirm your HDMI cable connects the Apple TV to the port labeled ARC on your Samsung TV. No other port will work for this feature.

Check Samsung TV settings.

Ensure Anynet+ is enabled. Also enable eARC Mode (set to Auto) in Settings > Sound > Expert Settings, even if your TV only has standard ARC.

Try a different HDMI cable.

Not all HDMI cables support ARC reliably. Use a cable labeled "High Speed with Ethernet" at minimum. For eARC, you need an "Ultra High Speed" HDMI 2.1 cable.

Power cycle both devices.

Unplug your Samsung TV from power for 30 seconds—not just standby, actually unplugged. Do the same with Apple TV. Reconnect and test ARC again.

Problem 3: Audio Plays Through TV Speakers Instead of HomePod

You hear sound from the TV, not your HomePod, even though everything seems configured correctly.

Check Default Audio Output.

On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output. Confirm the HomePod room is selected under Default Audio Output. The setting can revert after software updates.

Verify Audio Return Channel is enabled.

In the same menu, confirm Audio Return Channel shows "On (ARC)" or "On (eARC)." If it shows Off or Unavailable, the ARC connection isn't working.

Manually select HomePod during playback.

While watching content, hold the TV button on your Siri Remote to open Control Center. Under audio output, manually select your HomePod. If this works, there may be an issue with the default audio setting.

Problem 4: Audio Drops or Cuts Out Intermittently

Audio plays but randomly stops for a second before resuming.

Check Wi-Fi stability.

HomePod receives audio wirelessly from Apple TV. If your Wi-Fi is congested or your HomePod is far from the router, dropouts occur. Consider moving the HomePod closer to your router or connecting Apple TV via Ethernet.

Reduce network congestion.

Other devices performing heavy downloads or streaming can affect HomePod audio delivery. Try pausing other network activity to see if dropouts stop.

Update all devices.

Ensure your HomePod, Apple TV, and Samsung TV all run the latest software. Go to Settings > System > Software Updates on Apple TV, and check for updates in the Home app for HomePod.

Problem 5: Connection Drops When Switching TV Inputs

You lose HomePod audio when switching from Apple TV to another HDMI input and back.

This is a known quirk with some Samsung TVs. The TV resets audio output preferences when switching inputs.

Workaround: Avoid switching inputs frequently. If you need to use a gaming console, for example, you may need to manually reselect HomePod as the audio output after returning to Apple TV.

How to Fix HomePod Audio Sync and Delay Issues

Audio delay—where what you hear doesn't match what you see—is the most common complaint with HomePod TV setups. Wireless audio transmission inherently adds latency. Here's how to minimize it.

Understanding Why Delay Happens

Sound travels from your Samsung TV through HDMI to Apple TV, then wirelessly via AirPlay to HomePod. Each hop adds processing time. Most people won't notice delays under 40ms, but sensitive viewers spot even 20ms offsets.

The Apple TV's Wireless Audio Sync feature measures and compensates for this delay. It works well but sometimes needs recalibration.

Solution 1: Run Wireless Audio Sync Calibration

This should be your first fix attempt for any audio sync issue.

1. Grab your iPhone (required for calibration)

2. On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Calibration > Wireless Audio Sync

3. When prompted, hold your iPhone near your Apple TV

4. A tone plays through your TV speakers and HomePod

5. Your iPhone's microphone measures the timing difference and calibrates automatically

Run this calibration in a quiet room for best results. The process takes about 60 seconds.

Important: If you have Match Content enabled for Frame Rate, you may need to recalibrate after switching between content at different frame rates (24Hz movies vs 60Hz TV shows). The calibration applies per video format.

Solution 2: Adjust Samsung TV Audio Delay

Samsung TVs have their own audio delay slider that works independently of Apple TV's calibration.

1. Go to Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > Digital Output Audio Delay

2. Adjust the slider in small increments

3. Test with content that has clear dialogue or visible lip movements

Increase delay if audio plays before video. Decrease delay if audio lags behind video.

Solution 3: Check Audio Format Settings

Certain audio processing modes add latency.

On Apple TV:

1. Go to Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Format

2. Select Change Format

3. Choose Stereo for testing purposes

If sync improves with Stereo, the issue relates to surround sound processing. You can return to Auto after testing. For persistent issues, leaving it on Stereo sacrifices Dolby Atmos but ensures better sync.

Solution 4: Temporarily Disable Match Content

Match Content adjusts Apple TV's output format to match the source content, which can sometimes cause sync issues.

1. Go to Settings > Video and Audio > Match Content

2. Disable Match Frame Rate temporarily

3. Test audio sync with your problematic content

If sync improves, run Wireless Audio Sync calibration again, then re-enable Match Content.

Solution 5: Optimize Your Network

Poor Wi-Fi causes inconsistent audio delivery, which manifests as variable delay.

• Connect Apple TV via Ethernet if possible (requires the Wi-Fi + Ethernet model)

• Move your HomePod closer to your Wi-Fi router

• Ensure HomePod and Apple TV use the same 5GHz network band

• Reduce other network traffic during critical viewing

When Delay Issues Persist

Some delay in wireless audio is unavoidable. If you've tried everything and still notice sync issues:

• Accept that wireless audio will never be as tight as wired

• Consider the trade-off between convenience and perfect sync

• Check for tvOS and HomePod software updates—Apple has improved sync handling in recent releases

For content where sync matters most (dialogue-heavy dramas, music performances), you can temporarily switch audio output to your TV speakers via Control Center on Apple TV.

HomePod vs HomePod Mini: Which Is Better for Samsung TV?

Both HomePod models work with your Samsung TV through Apple TV, but they serve different purposes and budgets.

Feature Comparison

HomePod 2nd Generation: Best For

Movie enthusiasts: Dolby Atmos support creates a genuinely immersive soundstage for films. HomePod's computational audio analyzes your room and adjusts output accordingly. The difference when watching action movies or concert films is substantial.

Music listeners: If you use your TV for music streaming (Apple Music, Spotify Connect via AirPlay), the HomePod 2nd gen's audio quality far exceeds the Mini. The high-excursion woofer delivers bass you can feel.

Larger rooms: A single HomePod fills a medium-sized living room comfortably. In larger spaces, a stereo pair provides better coverage.

Those prioritizing quality over cost: At $299 (or $598 for a stereo pair), HomePod costs more but delivers demonstrably better sound than HomePod Mini.

HomePod Mini: Best For

Budget-conscious buyers: At $99, HomePod Mini is the most affordable way to use HomePod as a TV speaker. A stereo pair at $198 costs less than a single full-sized HomePod.

Smaller spaces: In a bedroom, home office, or apartment living room, HomePod Mini stereo pair provides adequate sound without overpowering the space.

Dialogue clarity: If your main concern is hearing dialogue more clearly than your TV speakers allow, a single HomePod Mini may be sufficient. It won't blow you away with bass, but voices come through clearly.

Testing the setup: If you're unsure whether you'll like HomePod as your TV speaker, start with a Mini. You can always upgrade later or add a second Mini for stereo.

HomePod Mini Limitations for TV Use

The Mini works, but with caveats:

• No Dolby Atmos: Content encoded in Atmos plays as stereo. You won't get immersive spatial audio effects.

• Limited bass: Explosions and soundtracks lack impact. This is noticeable in action movies.

• Single Mini underwhelms: One HomePod Mini doesn't dramatically improve over decent TV speakers. Stereo pair recommended.

Recommendation by Use Case

For serious movie watching: HomePod 2nd generation (single or stereo pair)

For casual TV and streaming: HomePod Mini stereo pair

For dialogue improvement on a budget: Single HomePod Mini (acceptable but not ideal)

For the best possible experience: HomePod 2nd gen stereo pair ($598 total, plus Apple TV)

How to Set Up HomePod Stereo Pair for Samsung TV Home Theater

A stereo pair of HomePods creates left and right audio channels, improving soundstage and immersion significantly over a single speaker.

Stereo Pair Requirements

• Two identical HomePods OR two identical HomePod Minis

• Cannot mix HomePod and HomePod Mini

• Cannot mix 1st gen and 2nd gen HomePod

• Both speakers on the same Wi-Fi network

• Both assigned to the same room in Home app

Creating a Stereo Pair

1. Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad

2. Touch and hold one of your HomePods

3. Scroll down and tap the Settings gear icon

4. Tap Create Stereo Pair

5. Select the second HomePod when prompted

6. Assign left and right channels based on physical speaker placement (left speaker on the left side of your TV, right on the right)

7. Tap Done

The Home app now shows your stereo pair as a single tile.

Optimal Placement for TV Audio

Where you position your HomePods significantly affects audio quality:

Position on either side of your Samsung TV. Keep the speakers equidistant from your primary listening position.

Place at ear level when seated. If your TV is on a low stand, HomePods on the same surface work well. For wall-mounted TVs, consider speaker stands.

Maintain 6-12 inches from walls. HomePod's computational audio works better with some breathing room. Cramming speakers into corners reduces sound quality.

Angle slightly inward. Point the HomePods toward your seating area rather than straight ahead. This is called "toe-in" and improves the stereo sweet spot.

Configuring Stereo Pair with Apple TV

After creating the stereo pair, the pair appears as a single audio output option in Apple TV settings:

1. Go to Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output

2. Under Default Audio Output, select the room with your stereo pair

3. The pair shows as one output (e.g., "Living Room" rather than individual speakers)

4. Enable Audio Return Channel if not already active

Troubleshooting Stereo Pair Issues

Pairing fails repeatedly: Update both HomePods to the latest software in the Home app before attempting to pair.

Audio sounds unbalanced: Check that left/right assignment matches physical placement. You can swap channels in the HomePod stereo pair settings without unplugging speakers.

One HomePod drops from the pair: Remove the stereo pair in Home app settings, restart both HomePods, then recreate the pair.

Advanced Setup: Dolby Atmos and Surround Sound with HomePod

The HomePod 2nd generation supports Dolby Atmos for spatial audio that simulates surround sound from two speakers. Here's how to get it working.

Dolby Atmos Requirements

• HomePod (2nd generation) – HomePod Mini does NOT support Atmos

• Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later)

• Samsung TV with HDMI eARC port – Standard ARC supports Atmos in lossy format; eARC supports lossless Atmos

• Ultra High-Speed HDMI 2.1 cable – Standard HDMI cables may not pass Atmos reliably

• Content with Dolby Atmos audio track – Look for the Atmos badge on Apple TV+, Netflix, Disney+

Enabling Dolby Atmos on Apple TV

1. Go to Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Format

2. Make sure Change Format is set to Off (this enables automatic format selection)

3. Look for Dolby Atmos status—it should show "Available" or "On"

4. If it shows "Unavailable," check your eARC settings

Configuring Samsung TV for Atmos Passthrough

Your Samsung TV must pass the Atmos signal through to Apple TV without decoding it:

1. Go to Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > HDMI eARC Mode > Auto

2. Go to Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > Digital Output Audio Format > Auto or Passthrough

3. Verify Apple TV is connected to the eARC-labeled port

Verifying Atmos Is Active

While playing Atmos content:

1. Swipe down on the Siri Remote to reveal the info banner

2. Check the audio format display—it should show "Dolby Atmos"

Content must have an Atmos audio track for Atmos output. Standard 5.1 or stereo content won't display Atmos even if everything is configured correctly.

What Atmos on HomePod Actually Sounds Like

Temper expectations slightly. HomePod's Dolby Atmos isn't the same as a dedicated Atmos home theater with ceiling speakers.

What you get:

• Wider soundstage than standard stereo

• Better sense of audio positioning (voices centered, effects panned)

• Improved height effects in supported content

• Computational audio that adapts to your room

What you don't get:

• True overhead audio (no physical ceiling speakers)

• Discrete rear channels

• The precision of a calibrated 7.1.4 system

That said, HomePod 2nd gen's Atmos implementation genuinely improves movie watching. The difference between Atmos content and standard 5.1 is audible, especially in action sequences.

Alternative Solutions When Apple TV Isn't an Option

If purchasing an Apple TV isn't feasible, here's an honest assessment of your alternatives.

The Hard Truth

There is no way to use HomePod as a Samsung TV speaker without Apple TV. This isn't a configuration issue or hidden setting—it's how Apple designed HomePod to function within its ecosystem.

Third-party adapters and workarounds you might find online either don't work or provide degraded audio quality that defeats the purpose.

Alternative 1: AirPlay from iPhone/iPad to Samsung TV

You can AirPlay content from your phone to your Samsung TV, but:

• Audio plays through the TV speakers, not HomePod

• Both devices receive video, but HomePod can't tap into TV audio

• Useful for sharing content, not for better audio

Alternative 2: Use Samsung TV's Built-in Streaming Apps

Samsung TVs have Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, and most other streaming apps built in. You can use these without Apple TV—but audio comes through TV speakers only.

Alternative 3: Consider a Soundbar Instead

If your primary goal is better TV audio and you don't want to buy Apple TV, a soundbar connects directly via HDMI ARC:

Samsung soundbar options:

• Samsung Q-series soundbars support Dolby Atmos and connect easily to Samsung TVs

• Samsung HW-Q600C: ~$400, solid mid-range option

• Samsung HW-Q990C: ~$1,500, flagship with rear speakers

Trade-offs vs HomePod:

• Soundbars connect directly without Apple TV

• No integration with Apple Music, Siri, or HomeKit

• HomePod provides better whole-home audio ecosystem

• Soundbar pricing varies widely; premium models cost more than HomePod + Apple TV

When Apple TV Makes Sense

Consider Apple TV if you:

• Already use multiple Apple devices

• Want HomeKit smart home integration

• Plan to use HomePod for music and TV audio

• Prefer Siri voice control

• Subscribe to Apple TV+ or Apple Fitness+

Apple TV provides value beyond just the HomePod connection. It becomes a central hub for your Apple ecosystem.

What About Future Updates?

Some hope Apple will eventually enable direct HomePod-to-TV connections. This seems unlikely based on Apple's design philosophy:

• HomePod is built around AirPlay, not Bluetooth or generic protocols

• Apple prioritizes ecosystem integration over broad compatibility

• No indication from Apple that this functionality is planned

If you want HomePod with your Samsung TV today, Apple TV remains the only path.

Frequently Asked Questions About HomePod and Samsung TV

Can I connect HomePod to Samsung TV without Apple TV?

No. HomePod requires Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) to function as a Samsung TV speaker. There's no direct connection method—HomePod doesn't support standard Bluetooth audio input, and Samsung TV's AirPlay 2 can only receive content, not send audio to external speakers.

Does HomePod work as a Bluetooth speaker?

No. HomePod exclusively uses AirPlay for audio streaming. It will not appear in Bluetooth device lists on your TV, phone, or computer. This is an intentional design choice by Apple to ensure tight integration within the Apple ecosystem.

Which Samsung TVs work with HomePod?

Samsung TVs from 2018 onward support AirPlay 2 and have HDMI ARC ports necessary for this setup. This includes: NU series (2018), RU series (2019), TU series (2020), AU series (2021), BU series (2022), CU series (2023), DU series (2024), and F series (2025).

Can I control Samsung TV volume with HomePod?

Yes, when using Apple TV with HDMI-CEC enabled. Say "Hey Siri, turn up the volume" to your HomePod, and it communicates through Apple TV to adjust volume. Note: This controls HomePod volume, not the TV's internal speakers.

Does HomePod Mini support Dolby Atmos?

No. Only the full-sized HomePod (2nd generation) supports Dolby Atmos. HomePod Mini plays stereo audio only, regardless of source content. For immersive movie audio, you need the larger HomePod.

Can I use two HomePods as surround sound?

Yes and no. A HomePod stereo pair creates left and right channels with spatial audio processing that simulates surround sound. However, it's not true 5.1 or 7.1 surround—there are no discrete rear channels. The computational audio creates an impressive soundstage but doesn't replace a full speaker system.

Why is my HomePod audio out of sync with Samsung TV?

Wireless audio transmission adds latency. Run Wireless Audio Sync calibration on your Apple TV (Settings > Video and Audio > Calibration > Wireless Audio Sync) using your iPhone. Also check Samsung TV's Digital Output Audio Delay setting for fine-tuning.

Can I use HomePod with Samsung soundbar simultaneously?

No, not for TV audio. Your Samsung TV can only send audio through one output at a time—either to HomePod via Apple TV or to a soundbar via a separate ARC connection. You must choose one system for TV audio.

Does this setup work with gaming consoles like Xbox or PlayStation?

Yes, with eARC. Connect your gaming console to any HDMI port on your Samsung TV. Audio routes through the TV to the eARC port, then to Apple TV, then wirelessly to HomePod. Game audio plays through HomePod just like any other source.

Will future software updates allow direct HomePod-Samsung TV connection?

Unknown, but unlikely. Apple has shown no indication of adding Bluetooth input or expanding AirPlay to receive audio from non-Apple devices. The Apple TV requirement appears to be a permanent aspect of HomePod's design.

Get the Best Sound from Your Samsung TV with HomePod

Connecting HomePod to Samsung TV requires an Apple TV 4K—there's no way around that requirement. But once configured, you get a genuinely excellent audio setup that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem.

Key takeaways:

• Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) is essential. First-generation models and Apple TV HD won't work for TV audio.

• Enable Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) and eARC Mode on your Samsung TV for reliable connectivity.

• Run Wireless Audio Sync calibration after setup to minimize audio delay.

• HomePod 2nd generation offers the best experience with Dolby Atmos support. HomePod Mini works but lacks bass and spatial audio.

• A stereo pair significantly improves over a single speaker, especially for movies.

For most people, the $428 investment (Apple TV 4K + HomePod 2nd gen) delivers home theater audio that sounds far better than Samsung TV's built-in speakers and integrates beautifully with iPhone, iPad, and Apple Music.

The setup takes 15-20 minutes. Once it's done, you'll wonder how you tolerated TV speakers for so long.

Bookmark this guide for reference during your setup. If you run into issues not covered here, the troubleshooting section addresses the most common problems we've encountered across dozens of Samsung TV models.

Have questions about connecting HomePod to your specific Samsung TV model? Leave a comment below and we'll help troubleshoot.