Back with iOS 16, Apple introduced a new architecture for the Home app aimed at improving the experience of using HomeKit devices. Since then, upgrading to the new architecture has been optional, but Apple will soon force this upgrade on all users.

Code seen by 9to5Mac in iOS 18.4 beta 3, which was released to developers on Monday, suggests that the Home app will no longer work with the old HomeKit architecture. One of the new strings added to the system warns users that support for the old version of Apple Home “will end soon” and that they need to “update now to avoid interruptions” with accessories and automations.

According to Apple, the new Home architecture is “even more efficient and reliable” for controlling compatible devices. The update was first introduced with iOS 16.2 beta, but was then quickly pulled after multiple reports of it causing compatibility issues with smart home accessories. Apple re-enabled the new HomeKit architecture with iOS 16.4 in February 2023.

Since upgrading to the new architecture breaks support for the Home app on devices running older versions of iOS and macOS, some users have chosen not to upgrade. However, with this new requirement, everyone will be forced to upgrade to the new architecture in order to keep using the Home app and HomeKit accessories.

There are no details on when exactly Apple will implement this requirement, but presumably iOS 19 will only be compatible with the new HomeKit architecture.

iOS 18.4 is expected to be released to the public in early April. The update also expands Apple Intelligence support to more languages.

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