Apple is ending support for the original architecture of its HomeKit smart home platform on . Users still operating the older version of the Home app will need to update to avoid losing control of their smart home devices and access to newer features. The transition, initially announced in with the release of iOS 16.2, has been delayed several times, but the final deadline is now firmly in place.
The update isn’t simply a cosmetic change. Apple fundamentally reworked the Home app’s underlying architecture to improve reliability and lay the groundwork for supporting the Matter smart home standard. While the visual interface remains largely the same, the benefits of upgrading include access to features like guest access, support for robot vacuum cleaners, and an Activity History log within the Home app. However, the move also means some older hardware and configurations will no longer be supported.
What Needs to Be Updated?
The update process isn’t just about the Home app itself. To ensure continued functionality, all devices interacting with the updated Home system must be running compatible software. Specifically, Apple requires iOS 16.2 or later on iPhones, iPadOS 16.2 or later on iPads, macOS 13.1 or later on Macs, tvOS 16.2 or later on Apple TVs, and watchOS 9.2 or later on Apple Watches. Any device running an older operating system will lose access to the updated Home system until it’s brought up to date. This includes devices controlled by invited users – anyone sharing access to the home will also need to meet the software requirements.
Beyond the software on individual devices, a functioning “home hub” is crucial for many features. A home hub allows users to control their smart home remotely, receive notifications, and share access with others. While the older HomeKit architecture allowed iPads to serve as home hubs, this is no longer the case with the updated system. Users must now rely on a HomePod (either the full-sized model or the HomePod mini) or a modern Apple TV box to function as a home hub.
Why the Change and What Does it Mean for Matter?
Apple’s decision to overhaul the HomeKit architecture stems from a desire to create a more robust and future-proof smart home platform. The initial rollout of the updated architecture in iOS 16.2 was briefly paused due to initial issues, but Apple has since addressed those problems and is now confident in the stability of the new system. A key driver for the change is the adoption of Matter, a new interoperability standard designed to allow smart home devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly.
Matter aims to solve the fragmentation that has plagued the smart home market for years, where devices often only work within a specific ecosystem. By adopting Matter, Apple is signaling its commitment to a more open and interconnected smart home future. However, full Matter compatibility requires the updated Home architecture, making the upgrade mandatory for users who want to take advantage of the benefits of the new standard.
How to Update
The update process is relatively straightforward. Users should open the Home app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, navigate to the “More” button (represented by three dots), select “Home Settings,” and then choose “Software Update.” If a user manages multiple homes within the Home app, they will need to select the specific home they wish to update. Tapping “Update Now” will initiate the process, updating all homes managed by the user simultaneously. Once complete, the app will display a message confirming that the home and all accessories are up to date.
Apple notes that some users may be automatically upgraded to the latest version of Home, though the specific circumstances triggering an automatic update haven’t been detailed. For those encountering issues, Apple recommends ensuring that two-factor authentication is enabled for their Apple ID and iCloud Passwords and Keychain.
What Happens if You Don’t Update?
The consequences of failing to update by , are significant. Users will lose access to controlling their smart home devices remotely and may experience interruptions with critical alerts and features like AirPlay. Essentially, the older HomeKit architecture will become incompatible with the updated ecosystem, rendering many smart home setups unusable without the update. The move underscores Apple’s commitment to pushing users towards the new architecture and embracing the future of smart home interoperability, even if it means leaving some older devices and configurations behind.
