With the update of iOS 16, Apple iPads will not be the Home Hub to control HomeKit accessories.
Apple confirmed that after the launch of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, macOS Ventura, and the HomePod 16, the change will apply.
As the Home hub support for iPad will be dropped, users will need to have a HomePod mini, Apple TV, or HomePod to use the features. With Home hub, one can access accessories remotely with Siri.
You Can Still Use Home Hub With HomePod, HomePod mini, or Apple TV
According to the reports by MacRumors, Apple says, once the iPad will get support for iOS 16 and is updated to it, then the device will no longer be supported as a home hub. After the device is updated to iOS 16, this information will be shown in the Home app.
The home app reportedly reads, “A home hub is required to take advantage of features like receiving accessory notifications and allowing other people to control your home. You will not be able to view shared homes until those homes are also upgraded to the latest HomeKit. iPad will no longer be supported as a home hub.”
This change will disappoint many users, but iOS 16 is bringing many new features to the smart home. The home app will have a redesigned home tab and a new categories section.
iOS 16 update will bring support for Matter; it is a new smart home connectivity standard that has the support of a broad industry. This upcoming Matter support might explain why the company is dropping the support of the iPad home hub.
Recently, it is reported that iOS users can report junk SMS messages with the iOS 16 update. The marked junk SMS will submit the text’s number and contents to Apple and the phone’s carrier. iOS 16 will add a new option, “Report Junk,” in the messages app. However, the feature will be available in the US for now.
