HomePod connected to ATV keeps changing MAC address

I previously assigned static IP addresses to all devices on this network. I know the difference between an IP and MAC address.

Your suggestions did cause me to think of something. My router was allowing the HomePods to connect with the new MAC addresses (issuing new dynamic IPs). It was just blocking their access to the WAN/LAN once connected because of my “new device quarantine” settings on the router.

So, to keep new devices from connecting at all, I tried disabling the DHCP sever on that network so the new MAC addresses would not be issued a new IP. That seemed to work, but then weirdly AirPlay got funky.

So, I enabled DHCP again, but changed the IP range to encapsulate only the static IP addresses I had issued (they are sequential), so DHCP is active, but has no new IP addresses left to issue to new devices. I rebooted my WiFi, and everything is working as I’d expect.

My guess is, the HomePods try to get a new IP with a new MAC address during the WiFi reboot, but are unsuccessful so revert back to their “real” MAC addresses.

I rarely add new devices to this network, but can extend the IP range by one when I do.

It’s worth noting, this only happens when HomePods are paired to an AppleTV. I have other HomePods not paired and this never happens with them.

Thanks!

Apple has changed this several years ago. Their mobile devices can generate random MAC address on a WiFi network. This can be disabled in the WiFi settings (private WiFi address). What I’m seeing with the HomePods seems similar, but I see no way to disable it.

They are definitely creating new MAC addresses for themselves (which get a new IP as well from the router)