Code discovered in the first beta of tvOS 17.4 indicates that Apple is continuing to work on “homeOS” behind the scenes. (Via MacRumors)
Back in June 2021, we first saw mention of homeOS via two job listings that mentioned homeOS but we saw the mentions removed once it was noticed by the media. The listing mentioned “homeOS” on two occasions, as well as Apple’s other operating systems including iOS, watchOS, and tvOS.
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Apple’s 2018 HomePod initially ran a modified version of iOS 11, but the smart speaker was transitioned to the tvOS platform as of the release of HomePod Software 13.4. It is possible that Apple could be planning to eventually combine the tvOS and HomePod software in the future, which could potentially be rebranded as homeOS.
Apple is working on a new smart home display that is designed to compete with the Echo Show, Google Nest Hub, and similar devices. The new device is said to resemble an iPad and will include a built-in camera for FaceTime calls.
We’ve also seen rumors of a next-generation HomePod that has a display built-in at the top of the device. The device is rumored to possibly roll out as soon as sometime this year. The homeOS mention could be referencing either the iPad-like home hub or the display on the HomePod. Or, it could be referencing something else.
We may find out more about the “homeOS’ reference in tvOS 17.4 sometime before an expected March release.
