Apple tvOS 15 update brings eARC/ARC support to HomePod Mini

The extremely reliable HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) has been the go-to digital connector for TVs, projectors, and other similar devices for almost a couple of decades now.

Over the years, it has evolved into a do-it-all connection and now acts as a medium for all kinds of video and audio formats.

One of the comparatively recent inclusions into the HDMI standard is the HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) protocol which helps simplify AV setups by reducing the number of required cables.

This is done by removing the need for an optical cable and instead routing audio to a compatible HDMI ARC socket on the receiving end from a compatible HDMI socket on the TV.

But what good is all this for the Apple TV? Well, such a config allows an accessory connected over HDMI to be the global speaker output for the TV set.

The result is that audio from gaming consoles, cable boxes, etc. can all be routed through the Apple TV output with the sound broadcast over the HomePods.

While a previous tvOS update had added eARC support for HomePod, the HomePod mini is now being treated to the same as well with the latest tvOS 15 beta update.

eARC working perfectly with the Homepod Minis with the tvOS/audioOS beta! Also tested PlayStation and works without any delay!
Source

While some people do say that there is no delay in audio transmission whatsoever, some have reported a delay of 100-150ms, which isn’t too much of a problem really, unless you happen to be a professional gamer or something.

Of course, you will need an Apple TV 4K 2nd gen running tvOS 15 beta to make use of eARC on your HomePod Mini.

To be eligible for tvOS 15 beta, you will need to be a part of the Apple Developer Program. Next, there is a not-so-simple procedure (when compared to betas on other systems) to hop onto the latest tvOS beta.

For details on the procedure, check out this official Apple Support article.

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