Whereas everyone seems to be speaking in regards to the new App Retailer guidelines that enable sideloading and third-party funds, Apple could also be hiding one thing much more fascinating within the newest spherical of beta software program. A snippet of code in tvOS 17.4 beta 1 hints that Apple is constant to work on a brand new working system known as homeOS.
Software program code spelunker Aaron Perris at MacRumors reported the invention of a reference to homeOS within the new beta OS for Apple TV. The author doesn’t supply additional element of the context wherein that branding is talked about, however speculates that it might confer with one of many smart-home merchandise Apple is rumored to be engaged on.
The 2 predominant rumors on this space concern an iPad-like system that may function a central hub for a sensible residence and a HomePod with a display. One or each of those units may benefit from a bespoke software program working system catering to their particular wants.
As issues stand, one would assume they might run both tvOS or HomePod‌ Software program, which is in flip based mostly on tvOS. (When it first launched, the HomePod ran a modified model of iOS as a substitute, however Apple switched it over a few years later.) However it could possible make extra sense to create a devoted platform, most likely nonetheless intently associated to tvOS, with smart-home units in thoughts.
Hypothesis a couple of new smart-home OS started again in 2021 when two Apple job adverts talked about homeOS amongst new staff’ duties. It was strongly implied that this was one thing new fairly than a rebranding of tvOS–one potential principle on the time–since tvOS and homeOS had been talked about individually within the advert. The truth that Apple promptly eliminated the references from its web site additionally advised that one thing important was being alluded to.
When it comes to timing, the general public launch of tvOS 17.4 is anticipated someday round March, which as MacRumors observes could be a handy time for the announcement of recent {hardware}. That, in spite of everything, is when Apple likes to carry a spring occasion.