How to stream Windows system audio to HomePod
ToneRelay sends the current Windows default output to HomePod or HomePod mini. The source is your PC’s default-output audio, so each browser or player does not need its own AirPlay button. An app using a different output device must first be routed to the default output.
All HomePod models supported
ToneRelay supports the full HomePod lineup: HomePod (1st generation), HomePod (2nd generation), and HomePod mini.
Play Windows 10/11 x64 default-output audio on a configured HomePod over the same reachable local network. ToneRelay has been tested with HomePod software 27.
| HomePod model | ToneRelay support |
|---|---|
| HomePod (1st generation) | Playback supported |
| HomePod (2nd generation) | Playback supported |
| HomePod mini | Playback supported |
Where the sound travels
| Stage | What it does |
|---|---|
| App or browser | Plays through the Windows default output. |
| ToneRelay | Uses that default-output stream as its source. |
| Local network | Carries audio to the HomePod or HomePod mini selected in ToneRelay. |
| HomePod | Plays the PC audio with transmission and playback delay. |
Basic flow
- First confirm the target app plays normally through the PC speakers or headphones.
- Check the default output in Windows Sound settings and let the app use that output.
- Install and open ToneRelay, approving the Windows Firewall rule needed for local playback.
- Select HomePod or HomePod mini on the same local network, start playback and confirm Playing.
- Play the target app and check the app, Windows and speaker volumes.
Why is one app missing?
If other sound works, check whether the app or browser tab is muted and whether the app uses another output device. ToneRelay is not a separate per-app router and does not turn the HomePod microphone into a Windows input device.
Continue setup and troubleshooting
Test system sound and your normal apps
Start with a known local file, then play music and browser audio one at a time. A working local file with a silent app suggests an app mute or output assignment; if everything is silent on HomePod, use the no-sound guide.
Record a repeatable playback check
Check with your actual devices. A Playing state alone does not prove audible output. This is a procedure for your own test, not a measured performance result for your hardware.
- Record the Windows version, ToneRelay 0.1.0, HomePod model and firmware, and whether the PC uses Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Replay the same local audio clip; record discovery, Playing state, audible output and any interruptions separately.
- For video delay, compare speech and lip movement using the same video and player. Change only one setting per attempt.
- Keep settings screenshots for your own comparison. Remove personal device names, network details and License Keys before contacting support.
Choose the next step for your setup
Check the requirements first, then follow the guide that matches your speaker or symptom. Try on your own equipment before buying.
Related setup and troubleshooting guides
Frequently asked questions
Which HomePod models does ToneRelay support?
ToneRelay supports the full HomePod lineup: HomePod (1st generation), HomePod (2nd generation), and HomePod mini. Play Windows 10/11 x64 default-output audio on a configured HomePod over the same reachable local network. ToneRelay has been tested with HomePod software 27.
Can ToneRelay play Windows notification sounds?
ToneRelay can play sounds sent to the current Windows default output, including notification sounds that are unmuted and use that output.
Does each app need AirPlay support?
No. ToneRelay uses the Windows default output as its source; the app just needs to play through that output.
Can ToneRelay send only one app and leave other sound on the PC?
ToneRelay itself does not provide separate per-app routing. It uses the current Windows default output.
Can I send all PC sound to HomePod, including browser and notification audio?
ToneRelay sends audio using the current Windows default output. Unmuted browser and notification sounds on that output may be included together. Apps assigned to another output are not automatically captured, and ToneRelay does not offer a separate filter for each app.