MacOS 11.3 Big Sur is out---and it brings a bevy of new features, including the ability to set audio output to stereo HomePod smart speakers as default.

While iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple TV have all supported stereo-paired HomePod speakers as default for a while, this is the first time the Mac has joined them.

HomePod Stereo Support

Previously, macOS users could send audio to a pair of HomePod speakers via AirPlay. However, this had to be done manually every time you wanted to play audio through a pair of HomePod speakers, since the default would play audio on just one speaker.

Playing audio on a pair of HomePod speakers---thereby offering a fuller, more surround sound experience---can be selected as an output option in the Mac sound output list. To find this, go to System Preferences > Sound.

While Apple stopped selling the larger HomePod smart speaker earlier this year, saying that it will instead focus on the smaller HomePod mini, they are nonetheless great speakers. It’s therefore good news to see Apple continue to support and improve their functionality, despite seemingly moving away from the first-gen HomePod.

Other New Features on MacOS 11.3

Other new features found in macOS 11.3 include support for Apple's new location-tracking AirTags in the Find My app, a "Hello" screensaver, support for separate skin tones for both individuals on the "couple kissing" and "couple with heart" emojis, more diverse voice options for Siri, the ability to use the Xbox Series X/S Wireless Controller and Sony PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller for gaming, hibernation support for M1 Macs, and more.

There are also security updates, including the fixing of a bug that could potentially let cyber attackers get around the operating system's security mechanisms using a malicious document. In addition, there are a few bug fixes which should make the macOS Big Sur experience a bit smoother for users.

All in all, it's a feature-packed update that's definitely worth downloading and installing---especially if you've got a pair of HomePod smart speakers, have ordered your AirTag items trackers, or own an M1 Apple Silicon Mac.

How to Download MacOS 11.3

To download and install the update, go to the Apple menu > System Preferences, then click the Software Update option. Alternatively, if you're not a macOS Big Sur user, and have a compatible Mac, go to the Mac App Store to download a free copy.

The update should now be available for users around the world. If not, wait a few hours and try again.