Apple Confirms iPad to Still Work as Home Hub in iPadOS 16–With a Caveat

After some conflicting information, Apple has clarified the future of the iPad as a Home Hub within iPadOS 16.

Originally, Apple’s iPadOS 16 preview page said iPads would lose functionality as HomeKit Hubs, leaving the Apple TV as the lone device to support the latter feature.

Then, with the release of iPadOS 16 beta 2, text within the Home app detailed, “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.”

Fast forward to today, Apple has provided new statements to The Verge to clarify the matter. “iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 will continue to support iPad as a home hub with no loss in functionality,” said an Apple spokesperson.

But while HomeKit Hub functionality will remain for the iPad, when Apple debuts a new architecture for the Home app, the iPad will not support the update.

“Alongside these releases, the Home app will introduce a new architecture for an even more efficient and reliable experience. Because iPad will not be supported as a home hub with the new architecture, users who rely on iPad for that purpose do not need to update the Home architecture and can continue enjoying all existing features,” said the Apple spokesperson.

When the new Home app architecture releases, only the Apple TV HD, Apple TV 4K, HomePod, and HomePod mini will support the update.

Apple is expected to release its latest software updates this fall.

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