Apple’s HomeKit is one of the most popular systems for home automation. The Apple HomeKit allows users to operate home appliances and fixtures such as lights, thermostats, coffee makers, smoke alarms and much more, directly from an iOS device such as the iPhone or iPad. While home automation is not that new, the technology of Apple HomeKit is innovative and enhanced, as it allows users to operate many different devices from home or remote locations, such as work, restaurants, meetings, etc.

The timing of HomeKit is appropriate, as more consumers are using technology to control many aspects of their lives. Smart devices for the home are surging, and are expected to rise by 30% per year over the next four years. Many people are using smartphones and tablets to help them manage their everyday activities and tasks, but a connection between multiple devices and commands has not been efficiently developed until the release of Apple HomeKit.

Why HomeKit?

The HomeKit framework was developed in order to simplify home automation. Simple voice commands can be used to activate devices, so you can perform actions without ever leaving your couch or desk. You can control an entire room by using a variety of connected devices, even if they were developed by different manufacturers. Connected devices can be grouped together under labels such as “room,” “scene,” and “zone” settings. This allows the user to control an entire range of connected devices at the same time.

Siri

Siri is one of the most well-known companies to make their product compatible with the Apple HomeKit. This allows users to simply state commands such as “Siri, turn on the light,” and Siri will turn the light on for you. Other Siri commands include dimming the lights, setting the temperature, turning on appliances such as coffee makers, and much more.

It should be noted that the Siri commands for HomeKit cannot be used on locked devices. While other HomeKit commands can be executed from the lock screen, Siri commands cannot, so make sure your iOS device is unlocked when you execute commands.

Apple TV

Another way Siri is used for HomeKit functions is in conjunction with Apple TV. This allows users to execute commands on HomeKit devices while they are away from home. For instance, you could set the thermostat before you get off work. If you accidentally leave lights on, you can control it while you’re away. Apple TV is not required to use Apple HomeKit while you’re at home, but to be able to use commands remotely, you will need to use Siri and Apple TV together.

Privacy and security

Privacy and security are always top issues when dealing with technological devices that can control part of your life, especially since much of Apple HomeKit’s data runs through the cloud, and some data is stored there. According to an Apple spokesperson, the HomeKit API can only be used when developer apps are in the foreground, which helps prevent misuse and breaches.