HomePod Homepod Mini question - usage with ATV 4K

[vivekv80]

I have Apple TV 4K connected to a sound bar - without surround speakers. I would like to get 2 homepod minis and use them as surround speakers.
Qn: 1. Can the homepod mini get added to Apple TV for sound playback?
2. Can I hear sound simulatenously from a sound bar connected using HDMI and the homepod minis?

Thanks !

 

[waw74]

no, you can't use minis as true surrounds,

you can use them as another set of front speakers though, and use them at the same time as the sound bar.
This setting will probably clear itself, so you might have to re-enable every so often. It shouldn't quit mid-video, but when you go away and come back, the setting might be back to just HDMI.

When using airplay for audio output, you may run into issues with certain apps, some of mine get a little sluggish when using airplay and starting or fast forwarding video (basically, any time you start playback from a new position)