iOS 27 Opens AirPlay, Aqara Blind Tilt C100, and IKEA Längdmått

This week brings platform openings and clever retrofit hardware. According to Bloomberg, Apple plans to open AirPlay in iOS 27 to Google Cast and Matter Casting devices, starting in the EU. Aqara has opened beta testing for the new Blind Tilt Controller C100, a retrofit that brings existing slatted blinds into Apple Home via the Hub M3. In brief: IKEA's Längdmått pendant lamp has surfaced at the FCC, and the Matter module for the Moduel power strip is now available for pre-order. Plus a new video from Eric Welander on Govee outdoor string lights and a tip on controlling slatted blinds in Apple Home.

iOS 27 Opens AirPlay to Google Cast and Matter Casting

According to a Bloomberg report, Apple plans to open AirPlay to third-party devices with iOS 27. Speakers and TVs that support Google Cast or Matter Casting will be recognised as AirPlay receivers with the same functionality as certified hardware. The rollout will start in the EU only, driven by regulatory requirements. In the US and Asia, AirPlay will remain limited to official hardware for now. Details are expected at WWDC in June, with the final release of iOS 27 scheduled for autumn 2026.

Aqara Blind Tilt Controller C100 in Open Beta

Aqara has opened beta testing for the Blind Tilt Controller C100. The retrofit device works with existing slatted blinds and curtains that use a tilt rod, and follows the previously released Roller Shade Controller T1S. For Apple Home integration, the Aqara Hub M3 is required. Aqara has not yet shared full specifications, pricing, or a launch date. Applications for the beta program are open until June 10, 2026 in the Aqara forum.

Worth Watching: Govee Outdoor String Lights Compared

Eric Welander put all five Govee outdoor string lights through their paces. The video covers differences in brightness, build quality and app integration and ends with a clear pick for the patio season.

In Brief

IKEA Längdmått Pendant Lamp Spotted at the FCC

The upcoming Längdmått pendant lamp has surfaced in FCC certification filings under ID FHO-T2503. It delivers around 3,000 lumens, which makes it a good fit for living and dining rooms. Connectivity is offered over Matter-over-Thread or Zigbee. IKEA has not yet announced a market launch.

Matter Module for Moduel Power Strip Launches

The former IKEA ÅSKVÄDER system now lives on under the Moduel brand. The announced Matter module is available for pre-order and connects the power strip via Matter-over-Wi-Fi. The introductory price is €21.58, with a regular price of €23.98.

Tip of the Week: Control Slatted Blinds Separately in Apple Home

Slatted blinds can already be controlled separately by height and tilt angle in Apple Home, provided your device supports the matching HomeKit profile. One example is the SwitchBot Blind Tilt. Both the Home app and Controller for HomeKit show two distinct sliders for this. It is especially useful during midday sun, when you only want to tilt the slats instead of closing them entirely.