Apple Warns Users of Impending Deadline to Update Apple Home

Apple is sending out an urgent warning to users still running the legacy architecture within the Home app, notifying them that support for the older version will officially end on February 10, 2026. The company advises that failing to migrate to the new architecture by that date could result in a loss of access to the home configuration, broken automations, and an inability to control accessories remotely.



The upgrade involves a shift to a more reliable and efficient underlying architecture for Apple Home, originally introduced to improve performance for smart home setups with multiple accessories and controllers. While the transition has been optional since it was re-introduced several years ago following a rocky initial launch, Apple is now making it mandatory to ensure users receive important security fixes and performance improvements.


Moving to the new architecture is also required to enable newer features, such as Activity History, guest access, and support for Matter-enabled robot vacuums. Just last month, iRobot began rolling out a firmware update to bring Apple Home support to select Roomba models, a functionality that relies on this modern infrastructure.

To complete the upgrade, all devices accessing the home must be running at least iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, macOS 13.1, tvOS 16.2, or watchOS 9.2. It is important to note that once the upgrade is applied, the iPad will no longer be supported as a home hub. Users will need a HomePod or Apple TV to handle remote access and shared control.

You can check your status or initiate the upgrade by opening the Home app, tapping the More button, and selecting Home Settings. If the "Software Update" option appears, the upgrade is available; if the app says "This home and all accessories are up to date," you are already on the new architecture.

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