Apple is reportedly gearing up to launch a new software platform aimed at home automation. Here’s what we know about homeOS so far.

For years, Apple has been expanding its software ecosystems, creating distinct operating systems for its devices—watchOS for the Apple Watch, iOS for iPhones, iPadOS for iPads, and more.

Speculation about homeOS has been ongoing, with indications from Apple’s code hinting at a new software platform, possibly as a fresh addition or a replacement for existing systems.

The latest speculation suggests the system will be called homeOS, but no products currently utilize this software.

Trademark applications for the name “homeOS” have surfaced near the WWDC event, yet there’s no certainty this indicates a timely announcement or that the name will stick.

Here’s what the rumors suggest about homeOS and its potential reveal timeline.

What is homeOS?

Although homeOS remains unofficial, it is anticipated to be the operating system for Apple’s upcoming smart home display.

This device, a combination of an iPad and smart speaker, is expected to launch in late 2025, although the timeline may shift due to ongoing issues with Siri.

homeOS is believed to be built on Apple’s tvOS platform, which gives us a glimpse of what its interface might resemble.

The new screensaver interface introduced with tvOS 18 appears ideal for a countertop display, along with features like the Control Center and Music app with lyric view.

A key question is whether homeOS will replace tvOS and the HomePod software or if it will stand independently. Time will tell what direction Apple takes with these overlapping systems.

The main function of homeOS will be smart home management, serving as a hub to monitor who is at your door, check open windows, control shades, assist with recipes, facilitate communication, and answer queries.

Naturally, it will support Apple Home, formerly known as HomeKit, Apple’s framework for smart home devices like bulbs and switches.

homeOS will facilitate home automation control

In addition to Apple Home, homeOS will incorporate Matter, a unified smart home standard that enables compatibility among devices across Apple, Google, and Amazon platforms.

This framework allows control over various devices in our homes, such as shades, locks, cleaning robots, and temperature adjustments.

As a Home Hub, homeOS will provide secure remote access and local video processing for identifying people, pets, vehicles, and packages.

It will also function as a Thread border router—something previously limited to Apple TV and HomePod.

Thread creates a self-healing mesh network for device communication, often surpassing Zigbee, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi for certain gadgets.

Apple has included Thread radios in various devices like the iPhone and Apple TV for years, although some remain inactive.

Siri and Apple Intelligence will be integral to the homeOS experience, likely featuring an enhanced, more personalized version of Siri for improved task execution, particularly via voice commands.

HomePod and HomePod mini can identify different users by voice, and this capability is expected to carry over to the new OS, enabling tailored responses and information.

While the interface remains uncertain, it may resemble either the Apple TV or iPad layouts.

Mockup of an Apple smart display

We anticipate a mix of both styles, including widget support similar to the iPhone’s StandBy mode. There are also discussions about a distance-sensitive screen that adapts its display based on user proximity.

For instance, it might show a simple screensaver when you’re far away but switch to a detailed widget view as you approach.

Apple stock apps like Apple TV, Home, Music, Podcasts, Weather, Photos, and News are likely to be included.

The News app, with its recent cooking feature that offers step-by-step recipe guides, would seamlessly fit into homeOS. Users could view recipes on their Apple devices, save their favorites, and use Siri to access the cooking guide on the homeOS device. Voice commands may allow users to navigate recipe steps hands-free.

However, one significant downside is that third-party app support will likely be absent at launch. While Apple may expand developer support in the future, it would be disappointing to see this new device limited to Apple’s own apps.

homeOS holds great potential, and it will be exciting to see how developers can utilize this platform in the future, possibly with the release of homeOS 2.

When will homeOS be announced?

The timeline for homeOS remains uncertain. Apple might choose to integrate it with existing devices like Apple TV and HomePod.

If so, we could see its official introduction at WWDC 2025 this summer. If homeOS is exclusive to the smart display, we might have to wait until fall 2025.

Any further delays in the smart display’s release could push back the homeOS rollout, but ideally, that would allow Apple to enhance the software.

Stay tuned to AppleInsider for the latest updates ahead of the official release.