Apple’s decision to incorporate Thread radios into its high-end smartphones, and subsequently into its new Macs and iPads, is a significant move. This stealthy addition underscores Apple’s dedication to advancing smart home technology and could potentially revolutionise the way we interact with our devices.
Unlisted but present: Thread in Apple products
Though Apple does not mention Thread in the specifications of these products, FCC reports indicate that many of Apple’s newest devices have been tested for Thread radios. Typically, radios that are not present are not tested.
Evidence of Thread testing has been found in these models:
- iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) (Wi-Fi)
- iPad Air 11-inch (M2) (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Air 13-inch (M2) Wi-Fi
- MacBook Air 15-inch (M3)
- MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3)
- MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3 Pro or M3 Max)
- MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3 Pro or M3 Max)
- iMac (M3, two ports)
- iMac (M3, four ports)
Apple has not responded to multiple requests for comment regarding these findings or whether the Thread radios are inactive, which might explain why they are not listed in the product specifications.
Understanding Thread and FCC regulations
The FCC requires manufacturers to list every radio in a device and test them in every possible scenario to ensure compliance with transmission regulations. Tom Sciorilli, director of certification for Thread Group, stated that the FCC reports reference FCC 15.247, confirming the device will not interfere with other radios when operating. The reports found are for the IEEE 802.15.4 transmitter functionality, the radio standard that Thread uses. These reports mention Thread explicitly.
Thread, the leading wireless protocol for the new smart home standard Matter, is a key component of Apple’s platform. As a low-power, low-bandwidth mesh-networking protocol designed for IoT devices, Thread offers superior performance to Bluetooth. Its extended range makes it ideal for a range of smart home devices, from lights and locks to thermostats and sensors.
Apple has used Thread to connect devices to its smart home platform for several years. The radio has been in the HomePod Mini since its 2020 launch and is in the HomePod 2 and several Apple TV models. However, Apple has not yet announced the presence of a Thread radio on any of its Macs or iPads.
The potential of Thread for Apple’s future
So, why has Apple included Thread in these devices? The Apple Home app, which runs on Macs and iPads, could now potentially communicate directly with smart home devices, thanks to the Thread radios. This could mean that your Mac or iPad could function as a Thread border router, potentially turning it into a home hub. This is a significant development, considering that previous iPads, which served as home hubs, did not have Thread radios.
The Thread radio was briefly mentioned during the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max announcement, suggesting “future opportunities for Home app integrations.” This implies that Apple might not have had a specific plan at the time, making future-proofing the most plausible reason. Tri-band radio chips bundling Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread are becoming more popular (from manufacturers like Silicon Labs, NXP, and Murata), so including Thread might have been simpler than not.
Thread, an IP-based wireless protocol with low power and low latency, could also be helpful outside the smart home. It could connect peripherals like smartwatches, medical and fitness devices, and even AirTags, keyboards, and mice to your computer, smartphone, or iPad.
With the inclusion of Thread radios, Apple is paving the way for a future where smart home technology is seamlessly integrated into our lives. Thread is set to play a pivotal role in Apple’s ecosystem, promising enhanced connectivity and a more intuitive user experience.
