HomePod Sound Recognition feature now available, will send notifications when a smoke alarm is activated

Apple has rolled-out its promised Sound Recognition feature for the HomePod and HomePod mini, which will allow users to receive notifications when the speaker detects that a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector has been activated.

Apple’s new Sound Recognition feature was added to the HomePod recently through a software update, and today the iPhone maker is activating the feature, according to a report from TechCrunch, which says the new ability for the Siri-speaker to hear alarms can be enabled through a setting, accessible via the Home app.

When a HomePod detects an alarm from a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector, it will send a notification to the user’s iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch. If a HomeKit smart camera is in the property, it will also show users live video of what is happening.

Sound Recognition was first introduced on the iPhone in 2020. The feature is available on the second-generation HomePod and HomePod mini.