iOS 9 Rumors: Next iOS Version To Include A Brand-New 'Home' App For Managing HomeKit Devices, Split-Screen Multitasking

By Kamal Nayan - 22 May '15 02:56AM

Apple is planning to introduce a brand-new 'Home' app in the iOS 9 which could be launched at Apple's WWDC developer conference next month, according to reports. The new Home app will be used to control and manage HomeKit devices.

The new app would have functions like discovering HomeKit compatible devices via Wi-Fi. It would also create virtual recreations of rooms of organizing the devices.

The rumor, first reported by 9to5Mac, stated that the app would be 'fairly basic' in functionality. It would be able to do following basic tasks:

Wirelessly discovering and setting up compatible HomeKit devices
Creating a virtual representation of rooms in the home to easily organize and connect HomeKit devices
Utilizing the Apple TV as a hub connecting all of the HomeKit devices
Offering a series of screens to help users find new HomeKit devices and apps

Split Screen Multitasking

According to rumors, Apple is also working on split-screen multitasking for iOS 9 that would allow iPad users to work within two apps at the same time. The feature could be announced during the WWDC 2015 keynote on June 8.

Notably, the feature is already present in Samsung Galaxy Tab S and Microsoft Surface Pro 3 tablets.

Among other rumors related to iOS 9, the company is said to be replacing the Helvetica Neue font with San Fransisco font, currently being used for the Apple Watch. The font might also debut on the next OS X platform.