Overview
- An updated Apple support page replaces the planned fall 2025 cutoff with a February 10, 2026 end date for the legacy Apple Home architecture.
- The new architecture requires at least iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, macOS 13.1, tvOS 16.2, and watchOS 9.2, with older software losing Home app access.
- Users can update in the Home app via More > Home Settings > Software Update, and Apple updates all homes owned by a user at the same time.
- Apple says it may automatically upgrade homes for customers who do not update manually and will prompt users in the app, in Settings, or by email.
- The upgrade adds guest access, robot vacuum support, and Activity History with faster, more reliable performance, and Apple recommends using an Apple TV or HomePod as the home hub since iPad no longer serves that role.