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With the release of the beta version of iOS 18.4, there is a surprising new feature: a cooking function in Apple News+. This feature offers guided recipes, a clear representation of the cooking steps and the option to save recipes. What is particularly interesting, however, is that this innovation could point to a previously unannounced product - the so-called HomePad. The HomePad could be a new smart home device from Apple that serves as a central control element for various rooms in the house. The new cooking function fits perfectly with a device that is specifically designed for use in the kitchen.
Many had expected that iOS 18.4 would primarily bring improvements for Siri. However, these are not expected to be added until iOS 18.5. Instead, the focus is now on another function: Apple News+ will get its own food hub with the update, which will provide exclusive content for subscribers. The combination of recipes, an interactive cooking mode and an optimized display suggests that Apple is planning more than just an addition to the News app. The hints in the code of iOS 18.4 indicate that a new Home product is in development that works with these functions (via 9to5mac).
- Note: Apple News+ is currently only available in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
cooking function in Apple News+
iOS 18.4 expands Apple News+ to include a culinary content section. Users get access to an extensive collection of recipes, restaurant recommendations and culinary articles. The most important features of the new cooking section are:
- A constantly updated recipe catalog with thousands of recipes
- A clear presentation of the ingredients and instructions
- A special cooking mode that displays the steps step by step on the screen
- The ability to save favorite recipes and access them offline
The cooking mode works in a similar way to the lyrics display in Apple Music or the transcript function in Apple Podcasts. During a cooking process, the current step is highlighted, while the remaining steps remain discreetly visible in the background. This function is already available on the iPhone and iPad, but could be even more effective in conjunction with a special smart home device such as the HomePad.
References to the HomePad in the code of iOS 18.4
In addition to the cooking function, there are other clues that point to a new Apple product. In the beta version of iOS 18.4, references to a so-called "CookingKit" were discovered. This name could indicate an API or framework that was specifically developed for use with a new device. Apple insider Mark Gurman has previously reported that Apple is working on a new smart home device with a modular design. According to his information, the HomePad can be used for different rooms in the house and has the following features:
- Wall mounts for flexible positioning
- Special bases with integrated speakers
- support for FaceTime video calls
Although Gurman has not given any direct indication of use in the kitchen, it would be obvious if the device could also be used there. A magnetic holder for refrigerators or an interface specially adapted to the kitchen would be conceivable extensions.
HomePad as a cooking assistant
If the HomePad is actually developed in conjunction with the new cooking function, it could make cooking much easier. A possible integration could look like this:
- Large, easy-to-read display for recipes and cooking steps
- Hands-free control via Siri with commands like “Next step”
- Connect to HomeKit-enabled kitchen appliances to control temperature or cooking times
- Automatic synchronization with saved recipes from Apple News+
The HomePad would thus take on a function that is currently performed by iPads or iPhones, but could be made even more intuitive and practical by a device specially designed for it.
iOS 18.4 hints at Apple's next smart home innovation
iOS 18.4 brings an unexpected but interesting innovation. The expanded cooking function of Apple News+ is not only an addition for food lovers, but also points to a larger development. The clues in the code and the reports about a possible HomePad suggest that Apple is working on a new device that is specifically optimized for use in the kitchen. It remains to be seen whether the HomePad will actually appear soon or whether Apple is conducting further tests first. For users who like to cook and use Apple products, however, iOS 18.4 could already offer a first taste of the future of digital cooking. (Image: Apple)
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