Apple to Introduce New ‘homeOS’ This Year: Here’s What to Expect

Apple is gearing up for an exciting software year, with significant redesigns announce for iOS 19, macOS 16, and iPadOS 19. Additionally, a brand new operating system is on the horizon. Here’s all you need to know about Apple’s upcoming ‘homeOS.’

homeOS will Launch with Apple’s New ‘HomePad’ Device

It’s not often that Apple introduces a completely new software platform, and when it does, there’s always a compelling reason behind it. Typically, OS launches coincide with new product rollouts, and this case will be no exception for homeOS.

Later this year, Apple plans to unveil a revolutionary ‘HomePad’ smart display. This device is expected to blend the features of an iPad and HomePod. For more details on the HomePad’s hardware, be sure to explore other sources.

For now, let’s delve into the software that will drive the HomePad: homeOS.

What to Anticipate from Apple’s New homeOS

According to Mark Gurman’s insights, homeOS will mirror many aspects of Apple’s current software ecosystems, but will be specifically designed for today’s smart home environments.

Home Screen

For instance, homeOS will feature a customizable Home Screen akin to those in iOS and iPadOS.

On the Home Screen, users will have the ability to:

• integrate widgets for tracking weather, stocks, reminders, and more
• access apps from an iOS-style grid layout
• maintain a dock for favorite applications
• manage smart home controls seamlessly

All of these functionalities will feel quite intuitive for anyone familiar with iPhones or iPads.

Siri and Apple Intelligence

Siri will play a pivotal role in homeOS.

According to Gurman, homeOS and the HomePad are set to “bring Siri and Apple Intelligence to life in unprecedented ways.”

This means envisioning everything Siri can currently do on HomePod, combined with advanced capabilities on the horizon that give Siri enhanced context awareness and the ability to execute tasks spanning across different applications. This could result in an engaging, voice-first user experience within homeOS.

Applications in homeOS

Regarding apps, Gurman suggests that an App Store may not be available at launch.

However, users can expect a suite of built-in Apple apps. While more applications may be added, the following list is anticipated at launch:

• FaceTime
• Notes
• Calendar
• Reminders
• Home
• Safari
• Settings
• News
• Music
• TV
• Podcasts
• Weather
• Photos

Adaptive to User Proximity

Speaking of the Photos app, homeOS will include a unique mode for showcasing a slideshow of images—essentially functioning like a screensaver.

It’s likely that homeOS will support ‘screensaver’ options using Photos when users are positioned some distance from the HomePad.

Gurman notes that the HomePad will incorporate sensors to gauge how close a person is, automatically adjusting its features based on distance.

This could result in scenarios where photos or a selection of StandBy-like widgets are displayed at a distance, while switching back to the Home Screen when a user approaches.

Apple’s homeOS Overview: “iOS for Your Home”

This year marks a significant phase for Apple as it seeks to integrate various software platforms for a more cohesive experience. It’s therefore no surprise that the new operating system, homeOS, aims to fulfill this vision.

The straightforward concept of “iOS for your home” could potentially resonate with billions of active iPhone users, positioning the HomePad as an appealing option upon its launch later this year.

What are your thoughts on Apple’s plans for homeOS? Share your opinions in the comments below.

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