homeOS: Apple's new smart home system at a glance

Apple is expanding its software portfolio. In addition to the well-known updates for iOS 19, macOS 16, and iPadOS 19, this year will see the launch of a completely new operating system: homeOS. It is being developed specifically for smart homes and will be launched alongside the HomePad, a new smart display. Learn more about what homeOS can do, what features it offers, and how it's changing Apple's smart home strategy here.

Apple rarely releases a completely new operating system. When it does, it's usually in conjunction with new hardware. homeOS is no exception. It will be the heart of the HomePad, a device that combines the functions of a HomePod with an iPad. With it, Apple is creating a central control unit for the connected home. The idea behind it is simple: an operating system that is modeled on the well-known Apple platforms but specifically tailored to smart homes. Apple is relying on a familiar user interface, deep integration with Siri and Apple Intelligence, and automation functions for the home.

homeOS and the HomePad: The new control center for the smart home

Apple isn't launching homeOS as a standalone system for various devices, but rather alongside the HomePad. This smart display combines the voice control and audio features of a HomePod with the screen and touch controls of an iPad. It will be the first and, for now, only homeOS host. The HomePad will serve as a central hub for smart home control, communication, and entertainment. From here, users can dim lights, check cameras, play music, or make video calls. It can be controlled either via the touchscreen or by voice command using Siri.

The most important features of homeOS

A clear home screen with widgets and apps

homeOS features a familiar user interface that's heavily influenced by iOS and iPadOS. Users can launch apps from a grid, use a dock with favorites, and place widgets on the home screen. Key features include:

Widgets for weather, stocks, reminders and more
An app grid similar to that of iPhones and iPads
Quick access to smart home controls

Anyone using an iPhone or iPad will find their way around immediately. The goal is to make operation as intuitive as possible without lengthy training, according to various reports.

Siri and Apple Intelligence as central control elements

Siri will play an even larger role in homeOS than before. Apple is banking on voice control playing a central role in the smart home. homeOS will combine Siri with Apple Intelligence to provide a more intelligent assistant. Specifically, this means:

Siri can better understand personal contexts and suggest actions based on your routines
Automations can be executed by voice, for example, “Turn off the light when I go to bed.”
Siri interacts with apps to write messages, set appointments or play music

Apple is working on making Siri more natural and versatile. This could make homeOS a particularly voice-controlled platform.

Apple apps for everyday life

At launch, homeOS won't have its own app store. Instead, Apple will provide a selection of pre-installed apps tailored to smart home use. These include:

FaceTime for video calls
Notes and reminders for everyday organization
Calendar for appointment management
Music, TV and podcasts for entertainment
Safari for web browsing
Weather for current information
Home app for controlling smart home devices

It is not yet known whether Apple will later introduce an app store for homeOS.

Adaptation to the user's distance

homeOS uses sensors in the HomePad to detect how close or far away a person is. The display changes depending on the distance:

When you move away from the HomePad, the display shows a slideshow of photos or widgets with time, weather and news
As you get closer, it switches to the interactive user interface with apps and smart home controls

This dynamic adjustment ensures that the HomePad serves as a useful source of information without unnecessary power consumption or distraction.

Why homeOS is a significant step for Apple

With homeOS, Apple is pursuing a clear strategy: to integrate the smart home more closely with the existing Apple ecosystem. iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches are already networked. The HomePad and homeOS fit into this concept, making Apple the central platform for home automation. The advantage for users is obvious. Anyone who already owns Apple devices can control their smart home without additional apps or complicated setups. The deep Siri integration, in particular, could set homeOS apart from existing solutions such as Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. Apple is relying on a simple concept: "iOS, but for your home." The familiar interface and integration with existing Apple products should make it easy for many users to get started.

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homeOS could change the smart home

With homeOS, Apple is making its ecosystem even more comprehensive. The operating system offers a sophisticated interface, strong Siri integration, and smart control for the connected home – if the rumors are to be believed. The HomePad will be the first device to launch with homeOS and could establish itself as a central hub for Apple users. Even though there is no App Store planned for launch, homeOS already offers a wealth of possibilities with its pre-installed apps. The most important questions remain: When exactly will Apple officially announce homeOS? How much will the HomePad cost? And will Apple expand homeOS to other devices in the long term? Until then, it remains to be seen how well the new operating system works in practice. Top accessories and HomeKit options – all in our Amazon Storefront ! (Image: Apple)