If you see a 'Thread Border Router Required' or 'Needs Thread Network' alert on your iPhone or iPad
The accessory you are trying to set up requires a Thread border router and your Apple device does not support Thread.
Connect to a Thread border router or a Thread-enabled device
To use automations, get notifications, or remotely-control your Thread-based accessories, set up a Thread-enabled home hub such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod (2nd generation), or HomePod mini; or use a compatible third-party Thread border router. You can also pair accessories to a Thread-enabled iPhone running iOS 18 or later.
Thread-enabled Apple devices:
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet
Apple TV 4K (2nd generation)
HomePod (2nd generation)
HomePod mini
iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or later running iOS 18
If your accessory won't pair using your iPhone
Make sure your device is Thread-enabled.
On your iPhone, turn Bluetooth on.
If you have a battery-powered accessory, it requires a firmware update from the manufacturer to be compatible with iOS 18.
If you already set up a Thread-enabled home hub
Follow these steps. After each step, try to pair your accessory again.
Turn your home hub device off then on.
Try using a device that's signed in to the Apple ID account that was used to set up the Home app.
If your home hub is an Apple TV that's connected to the internet with an Ethernet cable, connect your Apple TV to Wi-Fi instead. Connect it to the same Wi-Fi network that your iPhone or iPad is on.
Check that your Wi-Fi is connected and there is no interference.
Reset the network settings on your iPhone or iPad that has the error message.
If you use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or other third-party security software, learn what to do.
If the error message includes third-party HomeKit accessories
Follow these steps first. Then check the following:
Turn your accessories that support Thread off then on again.
Open the accessory manufacturer's app, and check that the accessory is connected.
