Apple has announced the discontinuation of its legacy Home app system with the upcoming iOS 19 release this autumn, as confirmed in a May 2025 support document. This mandatory transition marks a significant shift for millions of Apple Home users who previously had the option to retain their existing smart home setup.
The Home app, which has long served as the central control hub for Apple users’ smart home devices, underwent a major architectural overhaul two years ago. The update introduced enhanced reliability, improved speed, and broader device compatibility. However, until now, users could choose whether to adopt the new system or maintain their existing setup.
According to Apple’s official documentation, the new Home architecture delivers substantial improvements in device response times and reliability whilst offering enhanced support for third-party smart home products. Users running iOS 19 will lose the ability to control or monitor their existing HomeKit configurations unless they migrate to the updated system.
Keeping your Home app updated ensures you have access to the latest features, security enhancements, and performance improvements,” Apple stated in their support document. The company emphasises the importance of users reviewing their current configurations and initiating the update process before installing iOS 19 to avoid potential disruptions in their smart home functionality.
The transition to the new Home architecture, which began as an optional update two years ago, represents Apple’s strategic move towards modernising its smart home ecosystem. This development aligns with the company’s broader initiative to streamline software standards across its product range.
Industry analysis suggests that a considerable portion of the HomeKit user base could be affected by this change, although Apple has not disclosed specific figures regarding users still operating on the legacy system. The mandatory update particularly impacts users with older devices or third-party products that may have limited compatibility with the new Home architecture.
The implications of this transition extend beyond individual users to the broader smart home market. Manufacturers of third-party devices must now ensure their products comply with the latest HomeKit standards, potentially accelerating innovation in the sector and improving interoperability between different brands.
As Apple prepares to implement this significant change, the focus shifts to the future of smart home technology. The company’s decision to mandate the new architecture demonstrates its commitment to advancing smart home capabilities whilst maintaining robust security measures and reliable performance for its users.
News Source: https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/12/apple-confirms-ios-19-will-end-support-for-legacy-home-app-system/
