HomeKit provides a “standardized” vocabulary that helps devices talk with one another, and with Siri, Apple’s AI virtual assistant. It’s one of HomeKit’s marquee draws — install HomeKit-compatible lights , locks , and other smart home gear in your home, and you’ll be able to to control all of it using voice commands.
Now, more than a year later, devices built specifically for use with those HomeKit protocols are starting to arrive. Some of them come from fresh startups eager to jump onto Apple’s bandwagon — others come from established names in the space who simply want to ensure that their products don’t get left out.
Read the review of the Lutron Caséta Wireless Lighting Starter Kit.
Philips Hue 2.0
Philips Hue has long been a high-profile player in the evolving smart home, and Philips has been smart to ensure that its color-changing LED bulbs are compatible with as many products and platforms as possible. Now, the brand is adding in HomeKit-compatibility both for its existing bulbs, and for its new, brighter versions by updating the bridge that controls all of them. Spend $60 on the new bridge (or $40 if you’re trading in an old one), and you’ll be able to control your lights and change their colors by telling Siri to do it.
Read our first look at Philips Hue 2.0.
Schlage Sense Bluetooth Deadbolt
With HomeKit, Siri can take control of your door locks, too, but your only option thus far is the $230 Schlage Sense Bluetooth Deadbolt. With a more limited range than existing smart locks from Schlage, it’s a bit beholden to Apple TV, which you’ll need to access your HomeKit gear from outside the home. Still, it works well, and offers enough features to merit consideration for anyone who’s betting big on HomeKit for their connected home. All in all everyone is trying to step into the smart home game and iRonic Automation is still the leader!
