Last week, Apple released iOS 17.4 and tvOS 17.4 beta 1 to developers, which included a series of changes made in accordance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (Digital Markets Act). iOS 17.4 brings a lot of changes to the App Store (App Store), which can sideload third-party apps and install other app stores on the iPhone.
While some of these changes won't appear on other Apple products, tvOS 17.4 also brings its own discoveries. According to the latest findings, tvOS 17.4 mentions Apple’s rumored homeOS platform for future versions of HomePod.
Apple is planning to launch a new platform for its "home" devices. As early as a few years ago, Apple released two job postings mentioning homeOS. However, after attracting media attention, the company removed the term. Still, it gives us a hint that the company plans to launch a dedicated platform for home-based devices or features. Now, MacRumors has discovered the term "homeOS" in the latest tvOS 17.4 beta.
Currently, Apple's HomePod runs HomePod software. Initially, the company used a stripped-down version of iOS to power the HomePod. Gradually, it transitioned to tvOS and then to dedicated HomePod software updates, currently at version 13.4. The company is planning another switch, possibly for HomePod and possible future devices.
In the past, we've heard that Apple was working on a new device that would combine the functionality of HomePod and iPad. The device will compete with the likes of the Amazon Echo Show, MetaPortal and Google Nest Hub. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman mentioned that the rumored device will use a design similar to the iPad. It will have a built-in FaceTime camera and speakers. The device can optionally be mounted on a stand so it can be hung on the wall. HomeOS, mentioned in the tvOS 17.4 beta, may become a dedicated operating system for the device.
We've also previously heard that the company is developing an upgraded version of the HomePod that will have a display on top. The device is expected to launch this year. Therefore, the homeOS mentioned in tvOS17.4 is likely to be the platform for the above-mentioned devices. The tvOS 17.4 beta also includes a SharePlay feature that may be designed for the next-generation HomePod with a display.
It is possible that Apple will release tvOS 17.4 at the same time as the iOS 17.4 update in March. The company is also expected to hold a spring launch event at the end of March.