Homekit is built into all Apple devices and is controllable with Siri, but the product range is smaller than rivals HEY SIRI!
Although Apple’s Homekit platform was released way back in 2014, it’s lagging behind some of the other ecosystems. That’s because, while rivals constantly churn out new smart kit, Apple prefers to leave Homekit to third-party makers… and it gives them very tough targets in order to be certified (see panel, p19).
Apple’s first connected speakers have been discontinued and only the Homepod Mini now remains. You’ll find that Homekit devices are fewer in number and more expensive than many rival smart home systems, and Apple’s Home app feels a little dated.
As you’d expect, Homekit is specifically for Apple smart homes. Android users should look elsewhere, or go for products that work with other platforms as well.
SHAKE SOME ACCENT
Homekit is best controlled with Siri, which is built into most Apple devices. But Siri’s voice recognition isn’t great, and can struggle with accents – we find it often mishears us, turning on one light when we’ve asked for another.
Homekit doesn’t need a hub: if you have an iphone, ipad, ipod Touch or Mac you can control your devices through the Home app over Wi-fi or Bluetooth. But you can also use an ipad, a Homepod Mini or an Apple TV as a hub, always listening for instructions. The Homepod Mini also supports Thread, a mesh networking standard that can make your home Wi-fi reach further.
HUE’S SORRY NOW
Homekit works with key accessories such as Ecobee and Hive thermostats and Hue lights, but that integration isn’t perfect: we’ve found that some Hue bulbs simply won’t work with Siri but will activate fine from the Home app.
You’ll often find that Homekit apps work both in Home and in their own devices. Hue bulbs are a good example: while the Home app can easily activate specific bulbs and scenes, the dedicated Hue app has many more features and options.