Apple’s newest iPad Pro has finally taken a big step toward becoming a true smart home controller. The iPad just got the chip it needs to be a smart home controller — again, introducing Apple’s new N1 wireless networking chip. This addition officially brings Thread to the iPad Pro lineup for the first time, unlocking more possibilities for Apple’s smart home ecosystem.

Apple’s N1 Chip Brings Thread To The iPad Pro

The M5-powered iPad Pro is the first tablet from Apple to officially support the Thread smart home protocol. The N1 chip isn’t just about faster connectivity — it integrates Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, the three core protocols that power the Matter smart home standard.

While earlier iPads and even some Macs were rumored to have built-in Thread radios, this is the first time Apple has confirmed it in the specs. That makes this device a potential turning point — one that could let the iPad resume its role as a Home hub for smart devices.

Why Thread Support Matters

So, what makes Thread such a big deal? Thread is a low-power, reliable mesh networking protocol designed specifically for smart home devices. It lets compatible products — like lights, locks, plugs, and sensors — communicate quickly and securely without needing constant cloud connections.

With Thread built into the iPad Pro, Apple users can set up and manage smart home devices more easily, even if they don’t own a dedicated Thread border router.

Setting The Stage For Apple Home Integration

Apple hasn’t yet explained why Thread is on the iPad, but the reasoning might mirror what happened with the iPhone 15 Pro’s Thread support. Eventually, users could use the iPad Pro to configure and control Thread-enabled devices directly within the Apple Home app.

This means that adding a smart home device just got simpler — no extra hardware required. You can pair and manage gadgets like smart plugs or lights straight from your iPad, making the process faster and more user-friendly.

The iPad’s Return As A Smart Home Hub

Before the HomePod and Apple TV took over hub duties, older iPads could serve as HomeKit hubs. Now, with Thread built in, the iPad Pro might reclaim that role — connecting all your Matter and HomeKit devices into a single, stable network.

Even if the iPad doesn’t fully act as a border router right away, the N1 chip paves the way for that functionality in future software updates. It’s another sign that Apple is quietly preparing for a more connected and interoperable smart home future.

The iPad just got the chip it needs to be a smart home controller — again, and while Apple hasn’t confirmed any new Home features yet, the hardware tells a clear story. The inclusion of the N1 chip positions the iPad Pro not just as a productivity powerhouse but as a key player in Apple’s evolving smart home strategy.

As the Matter ecosystem continues to grow, expect Apple’s newest tablet to play a bigger role in unifying and simplifying your smart home experience.