Everything You Need to Know About Apple HomeKit
HomeKit is Apple's exclusive smart home platform, created to give you full control over your smart home devices. As long as your lightbulbs, thermostats, locks and any other smart accessories are compatible, you'll be able to connect and control them directly from your preferred Apple device.
Using Apple HomeKit isn't difficult, and we've covered all the basics to get you started below.
What is Apple HomeKit?
HomeKit is essentially a system created by Apple that allows you to control numerous smart devices from your iPhone, iPad or Mac. Even if you're completely new to smart home devices, there's no need to worry - everything can be accessed via Apple's handy Home app. Once set up correctly, you can even control devices using your voice thanks to Apple's smart assistant, Siri.
HomeKit essentially links all your compatible smart devices together, helping you to get the most out of your smart home. Using the Home app, you can add new devices in seconds, as well as create Scenes. These let you link specific devices together to suit certain needs, so you can control them all at once.
For example, if you wanted to create a relaxing environment just before you go to bed, you could create a custom scene and call it 'Bedtime'. As long as you have the right accessories to do so, you could dim your lights, turn on your favourite soothing playlist and lock the doors to your home at the same time.
Each action will happen simultaneously as soon as you activate your scene. You can also create automations with HomeKit, which trigger actions from a smart device or activate a specific scene based on the time of day, your location of if a specific sensor detects movement.
How do I set up Apple HomeKit?
Connecting a smart home device with Apple HomeKit is incredibly straightforward. All you need to do is open up the Home app on your preferred iOS device, and press the + button (it'll be located on the top right).
From here, you can connect a device or create any scene you'd like. Just follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process for your specific device. You'll be able to connect devices in two different ways: via Bluetooth or through your chosen Wi-Fi network.
If you'd like to control your smart devices when you're not home however, you will need a HomePod or iPad running iOS 10 or later, or a fourth-generation Apple TV running tvOS 9. You won't be able to do this with an iPhone as it'll be with you and not located inside your property.
If you're having any difficulty, make sure the Apple device you're using has been updated and is running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS.
What devices can be used with Apple HomeKit?
There's a huge range of HomeKit devices on the market, available from a wide range of reputable brands - not just Apple.
When it comes to shopping for smart home devices, just look out for a HomeKit compatible label on the packaging, or read the specifications online to make sure the product is compatible.
The range of HomeKit devices available is always expanding, and Apple even has a comprehensive lists on its website if you'd like to keep up to date with what's currently available.
Whether you're after your very first smart home device, or you're looking to transform your entire home, you should be able to find what you need. Apple HomeKit devices are available from the following categories:
If you're interested in upgrading your current smartphone to take advantage of Apple's intelligent HomeKit, then you're in the right place. Here at Mobiles.co.uk we have great deals across the latest iPhone devices. Whether you're after a SIM-free handset or a monthly contract with the UK's best networks, we're sure to have the perfect iPhone for you.