tvOS 26 has gained Thread 1.4 support to improve Apple Home
By ForGeeks The tvOS 26 update includes support for Thread 1.4, bringing more stable smart home devices to Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple has introduced support for Thread 1.4 in a new version of tvOS 26 firmware for Apple TV. The Thread protocol is used to connect smart home devices into a single self-healing mesh network. With the latest changes, Thread-connected devices will be able to work more reliably, especially in areas with unstable Wi-Fi signal.
Thread 1.4 makes smart home networking a one-stop shop
The discovery of Thread 1.4 support in Apple TV comes courtesy of Matter Alpha’s analysis of Apple TV networking parameters. According to the source, Apple has already included the new version of the protocol in the firmware, and a full deployment will happen with the release of tvOS 26 in September 2025.
Thread 1.4 was first introduced in September 2024. The update improves network stability and connects all devices into one common mesh space, regardless of platform. This is especially important as previously different systems created isolated networks, reducing overall efficiency.
In version 1.4, each device also gets its own path to the Internet, which opens up new possibilities: for example, smart blinds can automatically respond to weather conditions, and lights can change color based on the score of a soccer game.
Smart curtains can automatically respond to weather conditions, and lights can change color based on the score of a soccer game.
Apple’s Thread-enabled devices continue to expand
Thread has long been used in Apple’s ecosystem. The HomePod mini, HomePod, and Apple TV 4K serve as edge routers that connect the Thread network to the home network. The iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max smartphones also have Thread modules built in.
Thread is also used in the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models.
With the release of iOS 18, Apple allowed Thread accessories to be controlled directly from the iPhone without the mediation of an edge router. Now, with the introduction of Thread 1.4, the stability and speed of the connection will be even better.
And with the introduction of Thread 1.4, the stability and speed of the connection will be even better.
Energy efficiency and reliability for the smart home
Thread was originally conceived as a low-energy protocol, making it the preferred choice for battery-powered devices such as sensors, locks, curtains and lamps. Thread 1.4-enabled devices are easier to test and commission, which is especially important for manufacturers.
The tvOS 26 update, which includes Thread 1.4 support, will be available to Apple TV users this fall. With the update, many manufacturers are expected to start releasing firmware with support for the new standard for their accessories as well.
Many manufacturers are expected to start releasing firmware with support for the new standard.
The tvOS 26 gains Thread 1.4 support to improve Apple Home was first published on ITZine.ru.
