HomeKit devices
Five home automation accessories we’re excited about
Elgato Eve £TBA elgato.com
What is it? A range of sensors, designed to provide environmental data, including energy consumption, temperature and air quality. The integration with HomeKit should offer immediacy and convenience beyond existing equivalent products. When’s it due? ‘Soon’ Why are we excited? It will help you make informed decisions regarding energy use.
Philips Hue £150 (for starter pack) philips.co.uk
Schlage Sense £TBA schlage.com
What is it? We’ve seen quite a few smart locks of late, especially on crowdfunding sites. But Schlage’s one ticks more boxes than most. It’s designed to work with HomeKit, and enables entry using your iOS device or a programmable touchscreen. When’s it due? ‘Soon’ Why are we excited? Because we’d like our house to welcome us in, and not have to fish for keys. What is it? Wireless lightbulbs. You can control your lights from your iOS device, wherever you happen to be, and also their hue, transforming your room’s feel in seconds. HomeKit support is incoming – you might need new kit though. When’s it due? On sale now Why are we excited? Because of the convenience, flexibility and sheer geeky joy of the system.
Withings Home £170 withings.com
What is it? An attractive stationary camera that optionally sits on a magnetic tray and sends still imagery and video to your devices. It also features twoway audio, and even has a ‘lullaby’ mode with lights and sounds for soothing a baby. When’s it due? Buy online now Why are we excited? Looks great and has lots of features. We had some performance issues in our full review though (MF286).
Incipio DIRECT Wireless Smart Outlet $25 (about £17) incipio.com
What is it? A power outlet you will be able to control from your iOS device, including by using in-context Siri commands, or even through proximity – for example, powering up electronics on entering a room. Lamp adapters and powerstrips are also said to be imminent. When’s it due? ‘Soon’ (Q2, 2015 in the US) Why are we excited? Because remote control of outlets is great for saving time and energy in the home.