How to Avoid Being Locked Out of Apple’s Old Home App

It’s now confirmed: Apple is officially discontinuing support for its old Home architecture. This means that anyone still using the previous version of Apple’s Home framework will need to make some important choices.

According to an updated support article from Apple, the previous iteration of the Home app will lose support starting in fall 2025, coinciding with the anticipated release of iOS 19, as reported by MacRumors.

If you choose not to make the necessary updates, Apple warns that you might experience “interruptions with your accessories and automations.” Essentially, this implies you could lose control over your HomeKit-connected smart devices.

This shift away from the old Home app has been anticipated for some time. Apple introduced its new Home architecture in December 2022, promising a “more reliable and efficient” experience for HomeKit-compatible smart home technologies.

A notable change with the new Home architecture is that an iPad can no longer serve as a “home hub.” Users now need to utilize either an Apple TV 4K or a HomePod. This shift has been a significant reason why many users have hesitated to transition to the updated architecture.

The initial rollout of the new architecture with iOS 16.2 was not without its challenges. Users reported numerous issues, such as home hubs freezing and HomeKit devices getting stuck in an “updating status” loop. As a result, Apple temporarily pulled the new architecture for adjustments and finally reintroduced it in February 2023 with iOS 16.4. Personally, I’ve been using the new setup since its re-release and have encountered no serious problems.

Until now, users could opt for the new architecture or stick with the old framework, especially if they were still reliant on an iPad as their hub or were cautious about making the switch. However, as we’re discovering, Apple is set to phase out support for the legacy Home app in the fall. If you don’t transition from the old architecture, you risk being locked out of your smart home systems.

For those still using the previous Apple Home app, here’s what you should do before Apple ceases support.

Decide on a Home Hub

If you’re currently using an iPad as your home hub, it’s crucial to note that the updated Apple Home architecture permits only an Apple TV 4K or a HomePod to serve in this capacity. This change presents some tough decisions.

One alternative is to forgo using a home hub altogether in your Apple Home setup. While you can still control your HomeKit devices on-site, without a home hub, you won’t have access to remote control, automation features, or the ability to share control with others.

Your other option is to invest in a new home hub. The most affordable choice is the HomePod mini, priced at $99 (though it occasionally goes on sale for about $80). The full-size HomePod is pricier at $299 but provides enhanced audio quality.

Alternatively, a new Apple TV 4K starts at $129 for the 64GB model, or you can opt for the $149 model that offers 128GB and an Ethernet port.

Upgrade Your Apple Devices

Next, ensure that your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, HomePod, and Apple Watch are all updated to at least iOS 16.2. Any devices not updated to this version or later won’t be able to connect to an Apple Home environment utilizing the new architecture.

Additionally, if anyone else needs access to your Apple Home devices, they will also need to update their devices.

Update the Apple Home App

Finally, it’s time to complete the update. Open the Home app, tap the More button in the upper right corner (the circular button with three dots), select Home Settings, and then Software Update.

Follow the prompts, and you’ll have successfully updated the Home app, transitioning your Apple Home over to the new architecture. Congratulations, and best of luck!