Apple's latest move has sparked a buzz in the tech world, and it's all about the iPad's potential to become a smart home controller once again. The new iPad Pro, powered by the M5 chip, is a game-changer for home automation enthusiasts.
This iPad model is the first to officially support the Thread smart home protocol, thanks to Apple's N1 wireless networking chip. With Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, it's a powerful trio for smart home connectivity. While previous iPads and Macs may have had Thread radios, this is the first time Apple has publicly listed the protocol in the specs, and it could be a significant step towards making the iPad a Home hub again.
But here's where it gets controversial: Apple hasn't revealed its exact plans for the Thread-enabled iPad. Just like with the iPhone 15 Pro, we're left to speculate. The most probable scenario is that the iPad Pro will simplify the setup of Thread smart home devices, even without a Thread border router. This means you can easily add smart lights, locks, or plugs without the need for additional purchases.
And this is the part most people miss: Apple might be reconsidering the iPad's role as a Home hub. While it won't function as a Thread border router due to power requirements, having Thread radio in a mobile device offers direct control over Thread gadgets, enhancing reliability and speed. So, if your power goes out and you have a Thread border router, your iPad can step in and communicate with battery-powered Thread devices like smart locks.
Apple has been utilizing Thread in Apple Home since the launch of the HomePod Mini in 2020, offering reduced latency, lower power consumption, and more reliable local control. While the number of Thread devices is currently limited, the selection is growing.
The less likely but more exciting possibility is that Apple is considering bringing the iPad back into the Home hub fold. For years, any iPad could serve as an Apple Home hub, but with the introduction of the new Home Architecture in 2022 as part of the transition to Matter, the iPad's hub capabilities were phased out. While you can still control devices and create automations on an iPad, more advanced features now require a separate hub like an Apple TV or HomePod Mini.
So, why is this intriguing? Well, imagine if Apple brought back the iPad as a Home hub. It would be a welcome move, especially if it were implemented on lower-cost or more compact models like the iPad Mini. Using a $1,000 M5 iPad Pro to run your smart home might seem excessive.
Another reason for excitement is the potential for the N1 chip to appear in future Apple products like the rumored new Apple TV and HomePod Mini 2. With upgraded processors and the N1 addition, these devices could excel as smart home hubs, offering improved speed, responsiveness, and reliability.
What do you think? Is Apple's move towards Thread-enabled Home hubs a step in the right direction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
