Apple Says iPads Can Still Function as Home Hub in iPadOS 16 If You Don't Upgrade to New Architecture

Apple says iPads can still function as a Home Hub in iPadOS 16 if users do not upgrade their Home architecture.

With the release iOS 16 and iPadOS 16, Apple will launch a new architecture that will make the Home app more reliable.

The Home app is rebuilt from the ground up to be even more efficient and reliable. Navigate all your smart home devices in the redesigned Home tab. New categories for climate, lights, security and more let you access relevant accessories with just a tap. And a multicamera view puts your smart home cameras front and centre.


On its iOS 16 Preview page, Apple notes that "Only Apple TV and HomePod are supported as home hubs."

This change was a disappointment for customers who use their iPad as a Home Hub and don't have an Apple TV or HomePod available as an alternative. However, in a statement to the Verge, Apple says iPad users will be given the option to remain on the old architecture.

“iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 will continue to support iPad as a home hub with no loss in functionality,” Apple spokesperson Catherine Franklin said “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.”

It's likely that the new architecture involves the Matter standard which Apple also notes is coming.


Matter is a smart home connectivity standard that enables a wide variety of smart home accessories to work together across platforms. So you can seamlessly control your Matter- and HomeKit-enabled accessories with the Home app and Siri. Matter gives you the most choice and compatibility for accessories in your home, all while maintaining the highest levels of security.

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