To automate your home efficiently, you need a network that connects all your smart home devices and lets you control them from one central app. If you like Apple products, you may want to consider their smart home platform called Homekit. Here’s what you need to know about Homekit.
What is Homekit?
Homekit isn’t a particular product you can buy. It connects various smart devices via WiFi or Bluetooth, all controlled through Apple’s Home app and hubs. The Home app can be used to turn your lights on and off, adjust your thermostat or lock your front door once it is connected to compatible smart devices like the ecobee3 lite Smart Thermostat, Kwikset Premis Smart Lock, or Sylvania Smart+ lights.
Unfortunately, the app only works when you’re at home. To control your smart devices while you’re away, you’ll need a hub (hardware that communicates with smart devices). For Homekit, you can use an Apple TV, HomePod or iPad as a hub. If you love Apple, then you probably have one of these devices already.
Drawbacks of Homekit
Why You Should Consider Homekit
You can also use the Home app to create “Scenes,” allowing you to control multiple devices with one command. For example, you can set up a scene for bedtime. With one command to Siri, you could dim your lights, lower the thermostat and lock the doors throughout the house.
Another benefit: Connecting Homekit to your devices is really easy. Just scan the label on a compatible device with the app and the Home app will add it to your network.
