iPadOS 16 Removes Support for Using iPad as Home Hub

Apple has announced that iPadOS 16 removes support for using iPad as a Home Hub. The company revealed the change on its preview page for iPadOS 16.

In iOS 16 and iPadOS 16, the Home app features an updated architecture.

Enhancements to the underlying architecture enable faster, more reliable performance, especially for homes with many smart accessories. Communicate with and control connected accessories more efficiently from multiple devices at the same time using the Home app.


In a footnote to this enhancement, Apple notes that only the Apple TV and HomePod will be supported as Home Hubs going forward.

Requires all Apple devices that access the home to be using the latest software. Sharing a home and receiving Home notifications require a home hub. Only Apple TV and HomePod are supported as home hubs.

This could come as a disappointment to some users who don't own an Apple TV or HomePod; however, we don't anticipate Apple reversing on this decision. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 updates.