What is Apple HomeKit?

Apple. Ever heard of them?

Of course you have. Apple can barely sneeze without people taking notice. Despite that, they try (and are largely successful), at keeping things under wraps. In June of 2014, Apple announced HomeKit as part of their iOS 8 update. However, it was not enabled in the actual release and chatter about HomeKit quietly diminished. This is probably because many partners were likely updating their products to accommodate HomeKit.

Recently, however, Apple was again talking about HomeKit at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). This has fueled speculation that HomeKit could be unleashed on your iPhone or iPad in the near future.

So, what is Apple HomeKit?

If you followed CES, a big topic was the Internet of Things. This is simply the idea that shortly virtually every device from you coffee maker to your home environment will be connected to the Internet. Consumers will be able to control everything from any internet connected device. We see this with many Home Automation solutions, such as Nest. Needless to say, the Internet of Things is transforming virtually every industry as manufacturers try to make life easier to their customers, most of which are, themselves, always connect to the Web anytime and anywhere.

HomeKit is Apple’s Home Automation technology. It is a framework that could simplify the current state of Home Automation. Though HomeKit, consumers will be able to control a wide array of Internet connected home automation products from different manufactures.This was evident this past June when Apple unvield HomeKit for the first time.

Some items HomeKit will control are:

  • Philips Hue: This line of connected bulbs has an app that lets you change colors and control your lights remotely, and set schedule
  • Honeywell: The Honeywell Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat works in much the same way as the Nest Learning Thermostat
  • iHome: iHome sells speakers, radios, and alarm clocks
  • Schlage: The Schlage Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt
  • Kwikswet Kevo: Smart lock with sensor to determine who should or should not enter
  • Chamberline MQ Garage: Enable control of your garage door

There have also been rumors that the Next Learning Thermostat could be integrated with HomeKit.

What remains unclear about HomeKit is Apple TV. Recently some Apple TV updates have included HomeKit, fueling speculation that Apple TV itself could serve as the hub form many of the connected devices. It makes sense in some way, Apple TV would play a role in helping home owners control devices on the HomeKit platform as Apple TV, in many ways, it already the full, connected entertainment hub in many homes.

How to Use This Information

The Internet of Things is at the center of Home Automation. At Major, many of the HVAC and Geothermal systems we install have advanced automated controls. So, when it comes to controlling your comfort and home automation, our Home Comfort Specialist can help you and answer any questions you may have. You can also call 303-424-1622 or schedule online  for a free systems evaluation.

What things in your home would like to see connected to the Internet and controlled through home automation?