Apple ensures that the iPad can continue to serve as a HomeKit hub under iPadOS 16. On the other hand, the tablet can no longer be used as a home hub if you switch to Matter, the new protocol which promises to unify all connected objects.
The iPad can still be used as homekit hub for wearables after installing iPadOS 16 update, says Apple. In a press release addressed to our colleagues from The Verge, the Cupertino giant finally clarified the situation:
“iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 will continue to support iPad as a home hub with no loss of functionality.”
This statement comes following a warning that appeared in the second beta version of iOS 16. The update announced that “iPad will no longer be supported as a home hub”.
Read also: we tried Stage Manager, the new function of iPadOS 16 which will finally make iPads look like Macs
iPad won’t be able to act as a HomeKit hub after switching to Matter
On the other hand, the iPad will not be compatible with Matter, the new home automation standard which promises to unify all connected objects. Apple specifies that “the iPad will not be supported as a home hub with the new architecture”.
The Matter standard will be rolled out by the end of the year on devices running iOS 16 or iPadOS 16. Users who wish to continue using the iPad as a HomeKit hub are therefore advised not to switch to this new standard.
“Users who rely on the iPad for this purpose do not need to update the home architecture and can continue to take advantage of all existing features”, explains the Californian group.
The upgrade to Matter will be offered directly in Home app settings. It will be necessary to wait for a later update of iPadOS 16 to take advantage of it, details Apple.
With the deployment of the new protocol, Apple promises “an even more efficient and reliable experience” with Home app. Installed by default on iPhones, iPads and MacBooks, the application allows you to control all your connected objects.
At this time, Apple has not disclosed what specific changes Matter brings. We only know that the standard will allow HomeKit users to enjoy a wider range of products. Connected objects designed by brands like Google, Amazon, Ikea, Samsung SmartThings or Somfy should be able to communicate with each other.
If you absolutely want to adopt the new standard, you will have to use a HomePod, a HomePod mini or even an Apple TV. These three devices can serve as a hub for all the connected objects in your home.
Source :
The Verge