All articles tagged with #thread radio
Apple has secretly included a Thread radio in its latest M3 Mac models and M4 iPad Pros, as well as other recent devices, without disclosing it in the product specs. This hidden component, which was discovered through FCC reports, could enable future smart home integrations via the Home app, potentially revealed in upcoming software updates. Apple has not commented on the discovery.
Apple has quietly added Thread radios, a key component for smart home connectivity, to several new Macs and iPads released since September 2023. Although not listed in the product specs, FCC reports confirm their presence. Thread, a low-power, low-bandwidth protocol, is essential for the new smart home standard Matter, which Apple helped develop. This inclusion suggests future potential for enhanced smart home integrations and connectivity with various IoT devices.
The inclusion of a Thread radio in the iPhone 15 Pro suggests that Apple is expanding its wireless connectivity options beyond Bluetooth. While the primary use for Thread in the iPhone is expected to be as a Thread border router for smart home devices, it could also enable direct communication with Thread devices, providing faster control and potential trigger or presence detection capabilities. Additionally, Thread could potentially replace Bluetooth for connecting peripherals like smartwatches, medical devices, and camera accessories to the iPhone. However, Thread's lower throughput compared to Bluetooth may limit its use for certain applications. The addition of Thread makes the iPhone 15 Pro a more smart home-friendly smartphone option.