The Best Ways to Control Your HomeKit Smart Home: From Your TV to Your Apple Watch

Introduction:

If you’re an Apple fan looking to build a smart home, you’ve come to the right place. The best part? You might already own everything you need to get started. Apple HomeKit, which debuted in September 2014, has been around for a decade, providing a powerful platform to control smart home devices. Here, we’ll explore the best ways to access and control your HomeKit smart home.

What are HomeKit Hubs?

HomeKit hubs act as the central control point for your smart home devices. They enable remote access and automation for your HomeKit-enabled devices. The most common HomeKit hubs include the Apple HomePod 2, HomePod Mini, and Apple TV 4K.

Apple HomePod 2 and HomePod Mini:

The Apple HomePod 2 and HomePod Mini are excellent choices for controlling your HomeKit smart home. These devices not only serve as high-quality speakers but also act as hubs that provide seamless integration with the Home app and Siri. With voice commands, you can control lights, thermostats, and other smart home devices.

Apple TV 4K:

The Apple TV 4K is another powerful hub for your HomeKit ecosystem. It allows you to control your smart home devices directly from your television screen using the Apple Home app. Additionally, the Siri Remote can be used to issue voice commands, making it a versatile option for managing your smart home.

iPhone and iPad:

Your iPhone and iPad are perhaps the most convenient devices for controlling your HomeKit smart home. With the Home app, you can manage all your smart devices, set up automations, and receive notifications about your home’s status. Siri voice commands also provide hands-free control.

Apple Watch:

The Apple Watch offers quick and easy access to your HomeKit devices. With just a tap, you can control lights, locks, and more. The convenience of having these controls on your wrist makes it an excellent option for on-the-go management.

Mac:

For those who spend a lot of time on their computers, the Home app on your Mac provides another avenue for controlling your smart home. It offers the same functionality as the mobile version, allowing you to manage your devices and automations from your desktop or laptop.

Upcoming Features in iOS 18:

With iOS 18, expected to be released later in 2024, the Home app will gain new features such as support for robot vacuum cleaners, electricity usage stats, more granular control over who uses your HomeKit system, and Express Mode for unlocking doors as you approach.

Conclusion:

Apple’s HomeKit platform may not have been a primary focus for the company, but it remains a powerful tool for building a smart home. From the Apple HomePod and Apple TV 4K to your iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, there are numerous ways to control your HomeKit-enabled devices. As iOS 18 introduces new features, HomeKit continues to evolve, making it an even more robust solution for your smart home needs.