Skip to main content TechRadar the technology experts Search TechRadar View Profile België (Nederlands) Deutschland North America US (English) Australasia New Zealand Tech Radar Pro Tech Radar Gaming MacBook Air M4 Nintendo Switch 2 NYT Wordle today Best laptop Still using an iPad as a Home Hub? Bad news – Apple is about to end support for it By Cat Ellis published 11 March 2025 The latest HomeKit architecture is about to become mandatory When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Apple) Apple will soon end support for its old HomeKit architecture A note about the change was spotted in the iOS 18.4 beta source code After upgrading, you will no longer be able to use an iPad as a Home Hub It looks like Apple will soon require all users to upgrade to the latest HomeKit architecture – which is bad news if you're currently using an iPad as a Home Hub. The source code for the third beta version of iOS 18.4, which was released to developers earlier this week and seen by 9to5Google, contains a string warning users that support for the old version of Apple Home will end soon and that they should upgrade to the new architecture now "to avoid interruptions" to their smart home devices. The new HomeKit architecture is intended to be faster, more efficient, and more reliable, but until now, it's been voluntary. In fact, some users have deliberately delayed as long as possible because after upgrading, they will no longer be able to use an iPad as a Home Hub to control their smart home devices. You may like Apple’s HomePod hub tipped to be its biggest launch of 2025 – here are 3 things it needs to beat Amazon and Google Advantage, Alexa – Apple's smart home hub reportedly 'postponed' due to Siri slowdown Home is where the hub is Reactions to the news have been mixed, with some users on the HomeKit subreddit expressing shock that anyone would have held off upgrading this long, while others are left frustrated at the prospect of having to change their hardware. Comment from r/HomeKit If you currently use an iPad as your HomeKit Hub, don't panic – you may already have another device you can use instead. Apple HomePod speakers will work as hubs for your smart home system, as will an Apple TV. You can see Apple's guide to setting up a Home Hub here for more details. You'll probably have some time to plan your next move, too. iOS 18.4 is currently in beta and expected to roll out next month. Still, it seems likely that the HomeKit upgrade won't become mandatory until the launch of iOS 19, which is expected to arrive in November, along with the rumored Apple HomePod Hub – which could prove to be an ideal iPad alternative for use around the home. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. You might also like Advantage, Alexa – Apple's smart home hub reportedly 'postponed' due to Siri slowdown Apple’s HomePod hub tipped to be its biggest launch of 2025 – here are 3 things it needs to beat Amazon and Google New leak may have revealed more details about Apple's first smart display See more Smart Home News Social Links Navigation Homes Editor Cat is TechRadar's Homes Editor specializing in kitchen appliances and smart home technology. She's been a tech journalist for 15 years, and is here to help you choose the right devices for your home and do more with them. When not working she's a keen home baker, and makes a pretty mean macaron. You must confirm your public display name before commenting Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name. 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