Apple’s AirPort line may be discontinued, but AirPort Express got one heck of an update today. Firmware update 7.8 for the latest AirPort Express hardware (2012 2nd-gen model, no longer sold) adds support for AirPlay 2 and Apple’s Home app.
If you’re like me, one feature holding you back from switching from a Sonos system to the HomePod is the ability to connect to external speakers. With my Sonos Connect, I’m able to hook my Sonos system into the ceiling speakers in my home, and play the same music over my ceiling speakers and my standalone Sonos. I pondered how I’d do this with the HomePod. It looks like this update fills that gap, since the AirPort Express has a port to connect to external speakers, and can now sync with the HomePod. Now the only obstacle for me is the price of switching systems, and getting the AirPort Express properly configured to not broadcast a network.