Apple is no doubt one of the leading mobile phone brands in the world. However, it has its fair share of issues that it is dealing with. The iOS system is quite smooth for those that are used to it. Nevertheless, like other systems, iOS has to deal with bugs and other issues. Apple introduced a more reliable and efficient new "Home" app in the recently released iOS 16.2 update. However, some users have stuck or lost their devices during the upgrade process. Apple said in a statement released today that it will soon launch a new patch to fix this problem.
In its statemnt to the media, Apple claims that it is aware of the issues and it is working on a fix. Excerpts from its report reads
"We acknowledge an issue that may affect users' ability to share in the Home app. We'll roll out a fix as soon as possible. In the meantime, we have temporarily removed the option to upgrade to the new Home architecture. Users who have already upgraded will not be affected".
After upgrading, there have been several reports regarding the issue. Some of the complaints are
- HomeKit devices stuck in an "updating" or "configuring" state;
- Devices missing completely;
- Invitations to share Home with other users failing;
- HomeKit Secure Video recording not working, and more.
Functions such as remote access, home sharing, notifications, automation, "HomeKit security video" and "adaptive lighting" in the new version of the Home architecture require home hubs such as HomePod. The new "home" architecture does not support using the iPad as a home hub. You can continue to use the Home app on your iPad to connect and control smart home devices. Any connected devices that are not running the latest version of the software will not be able to access the upgraded home until updated.
Apple iOS 16.2 users get stuck when upgrading HomeKit
In the iOS 16.2 update, Apple upgraded the underlying architecture of Apple Home. Apple also officially stated that this can improve HomeKit performance. However, the upgrade process was not smooth, and some HomeKit users reported that the device was stuck after the upgrade. After eligible devices upgrade to iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, watchOS 9.2 or tvOS 16.2, users can use the new Apple Home architecture. If you have multiple family members with Apple Home, they all need to be updated to the latest version, or you won't be able to control your smart home products.
Apple officially stated that the entire upgrade process is very fast, it only takes about a few seconds to complete, and then the "Home Upgrade Complete" upgrade completion reminder will pop up. However, some users reported that there were multiple problems in the upgrade.
Most of the report from users is that the device is stuck in the "update" state, and the upgrade that can be completed in a few seconds. There is currently no fix for this. AppleInsider podcast co-host Stephen Robles saw many of his accessories freeze after an update. He ended up manually re-adding any unresponsive products after hours of waiting for the issue to resolve itself. Former AppleInsider executive editor Neil Hughes also reported issues with his setup, though it was probably much more confusing. One of his user accounts became unresponsive. He finally decided that the only way out was to delete the Home app and reinstall it.
Apple removes the option to upgrade to the new Home family architecture
One of the major new features of iOS 16.2 and macOS Ventura 13.1 is the ability to upgrade to the new Home app architecture. While Apple didn't share specific details of the changes, the company said the upgrade provides "better performance and reliability" for HomeKit devices. To upgrade the Home architecture, the user needs to update all devices that access the home to the latest OS version. At the moment, many users have not been able to do this. It seem to be a tedious process and users are shying away from it. However, those who took the bull by the horn and upgraded are reporting several issues. Following the reports, Apple had no choice but to remove the option for users to upgrade the architecture of the Home app.
Upgrading to the new Home app architecture is a user-initiated process, and within the Software Update section of Home Settings in the Home app. The option to upgrade no longer appears in the app. So users who haven't moved over to the new architecture won't be able to until Apple re-enables the option. Users who have upgraded will remain on the new architecture and cannot return to the previous architecture.
iOS 16.2 cool features
Despite the many issues, the iOS 16.2 update comes with some pretty cool features. One of the first notable features to come with the latest update is Freeform. Don't get me wrong, despite the name it has nothing to do with the so-called "Freeform" windows on Android. In fact, it's a new application for iOS devices that are designed to boost creativity. It allows you to organize and visually lay out content on a "flexible canvas", with sharing and collab options built-in. Users can add a bunch of files and preview the results without leaving the board. The Freeform boards can be directly saved in iCloud, and you can sync them across devices.
In addition to FreeForm, another notable feature coming with iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2 is Apple Music Sing. Singers, prepare your voices for fun! As the name suggests this is a karaoke feature running straight from the Apple Music service. There is also a new option that expands the total number of iCloud data categories protected via end-to-end encryption to 23. It includes iCloud Backup, Notes, and Photos.
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