One of the biggest changes in the smart home market in recent years has been the introduction of Apple HomeKit . The protocol allows software developers to create applications that work with home automation products. It also allows existing equipment manufacturers to create gateways that connect to HomeKit as well.
Apple announced HomeKit Future Proofing Your Smart Home for Apple HomeKit Compatibility Future Proofing Your Smart Home for Apple HomeKit Compatibility Read More in June 2014. However, it wasn't until recently that the company released a separate HomeKit app for iOS devices. Simply called Home, the app arrived in September 2016 with the company's iOS 10 update for iPhone/iPod touch and iPad.
With a HomeKit app finally installed, now is a great time to consider purchasing a compatible device. In this report, you'll learn about the growing list of HomeKit-related products and how to control them. You'll also see how to spot a compatible product on the market.
To date, there are more than 50 brands around the world that offer HomeKit compatible products. More products are expected to launch in the coming months with the arrival of the Home app. Products take many forms, including lights, cameras, locks, and shutters.
Apple's HomeKit page on the web is a great place to start when you're in the market for a new smart home device. On this page, you'll find links to some of the most popular smart products on the market, organized by product type, iOS device compatibility, HomeKit compatibility, and brand.
However, you should not assume that all HomeKit compatible products are on Apple's list. Products referenced here are only those that Apple sells in its online retail store. Why I bought my iPhone directly from Apple (and you should too) Why I bought my iPhone directly from Apple (and you should too) Instead of buying my new iPhone 6s Plus from my carrier, I bought it directly from Apple. It turned out to be a great decision, here's why. Read more . Also, Apple doesn't offer discounts on products, so be sure to shop around before you make a purchase.
Amazon Which Amazon Prime Membership is Right for You? Which Amazon Prime Membership Is Right For You? Potential subscribers used to only have one choice when it came to Amazon Prime. However, now, Amazon offers three different subscription plans so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Read More has a great selection of HomeKit compatible products in the online retailer's smart home store. You can also find them at physical stores like Lowes and Home Depot.
Apple reviews and approves each compatible product to help ensure your safety when you use it. So when in doubt, look for the icon. "Works with Apple HomeKit" on the box. If the product does not include this brand, it is not compatible..
For those who haven't experienced Apple HomeKit yet, consider starting with a home lighting solution like Philips Hue . With a Philips Hue starter kit, you can start creating custom lighting in just a few minutes. Each package includes two Hue bulbs and the required Hue bridge. You can add up to 50 bulbs to your setup at any time.
Philips Hue White A19 60W Equivalent Smart Bulb Starter Kit (2 A19 60W White Bulbs and 1 Hub Compatible with Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant) Philips Hue White A19 60W Equivalent Smart Bulb Starter Kit (2 A19 60W White Bulbs and 1 Hub Compatible with Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant) Buy now on Amazon
Philips Hue Philips Hue works with HomeKit:how to get the most out of it Philips Hue works with HomeKit:how to get the most out of it Philips has finally managed to integrate HomeKit into its Hue lighting platform, and it's amazing. This is what you need to know. Read More (UK) allows you to control your lights using your iOS device. Set timers, notifications, alarms and more for the full experience. You can buy white tone bulbs and those that change color..
It's important to note that the first generation Hue Bridges are not HomeKit compatible. You will need to purchase an upgraded bridge to add compatibility.
Don't want automated lights? Consider the Onelink Wi-Fi Wi-Fi Carbon Monoxide Alarm from First Alert. With a 10-year battery, Onelink sends notifications in case of a smoke or carbon monoxide emergency.
If you're concerned about home security, consider one of Schlage's HomeKit-compatible locking systems. With a Schlage Sense Smart Lock (UK) , you can unlock your door with a Siri request on your iOS device. It also offers an illuminated touch screen if you prefer to use a key code.
Schlage BE479 V CEN 619 Smart Sense Deadbolt with Century Trim Satin Nickel (BE479 CEN 619), Works with Alexa Buy Now On Amazon $185.00
Lastly, take a look at the Elgato Eve Wireless Door/Window Contact Sensor (UK) . With this product, you will always know if your doors or windows are open or closed and how often.
For an up-to-date list of HomeKit-compatible products, visit Apple's website.
Once you purchase and install a HomeKit-enabled product, the real fun begins. To use the Home app, make sure you download iOS 10 on your iOS device. You must also sign in to iCloud with your Apple ID on your device by visiting the iCloud section in the Settings app.
Make sure you turn on iCloud Keychain iCloud Keychain:Why You Want It &How to Use It iCloud Keychain:Why You Want It &How to Use It iCloud Keychain is a secure password manager for OS X Mavericks and iOS 7 for iPhone and iPad. Use it to quickly and easily log in to websites, Wi-Fi networks, Internet accounts, and more. Read More and Start in iCloud Settings. To set up accessories, allow the Home app to use your location.
To add a home accessory, make sure it's turned on and nearby. Open the Home app and tap “Add Accessory” or the “+” icon at the top right. Wait for your accessory to appear, then tap on it. If prompted to “Add accessory to network,” tap “Allow.”
Using the camera on our iOS device, scan the eight-digit HomeKit number on the accessory or accessory documentation. You can also enter the code manually. Please note that some HomeKit-enabled accessories require additional setup with the manufacturer's app.
From there, you'll be prompted to name your accessory and assign it to a room. Apple Voice Assistant, Siri How to use Siri to set the scene for romance How to use Siri to set the scene for romance Yesterday we showed you how to create a Wi-Fi light; Today we're going to take advantage of that knowledge to make Siri work with Sonos and then put it together in a romantic scene. Read More
For example, a Philips Hue light on a desk in a living room should probably be named “Desk” and assigned a room named “Living Room.” In this case, you would say, "Siri, turn on the living room desk.."
The Home app has a default room. To create new rooms, click the icon at the top left of the screen and select “Room Settings.” From there, take your pick. “Add room...”
You can share control of your accessories with other iOS device users in your home. Every user needs to have iOS 10 installed 10 New iOS 10 Settings You Need to Change 10 New iOS 10 Settings You Need to Change To activate some of the new iOS 10 features, like sending read receipts in messages or having Siri announce calls, You'll need to change some Read More settings on your devices and sign in to iCloud.
To invite others:
Your recipient will receive a notification in the Home app on their device.
To accept an invitation:
After accepting the invitation, these users can access accessories on the main screen of the Home app.
One of the unique things you can do with the Home app is schedule automated tasks for your accessories. For example, you can schedule your lights to come on every time you get home or when the sun goes down.
The automated tasks available in the Home app vary depending on your accessories. For the automated tasks available in your home, click the Automation tab within the app.
Products that support HomeKit can be accessed through the Home app and iOS Control Center. The combination makes it easy for you to control your smart home devices with your iPhone and iPad.
We expect this market to continue to grow in the coming months. Be sure to check Apple's website often for the current list of HomeKit-compatible accessories.
