Yesterday we heard that the first Apple HomeKit devices are launching shortly and now we have some more details on the role of the Apple TV with HomeKit devices.
Back in January we heard that the Apple TV could be used to control your Apple HomeKit devices remotely and now Apple has confirmed this in some documentation on its website.
Remote Control with Apple TV
The integration of Apple TV with HomeKit devices offers a seamless way to manage your smart home accessories from anywhere. According to Apple, if you have an Apple TV (3rd generation or later) with software version 7.0 or later, you can control your HomeKit-enabled accessories when you’re away from home using your iOS device. This means that whether you’re at work, on vacation, or simply out running errands, you can still manage your home environment with ease.
If you have an Apple TV (3rd generation or later) with software version 7.0 or later, you can control your HomeKit-enabled accessories when you’re away from home using your iOS device.
Sign in with the same Apple ID on your iOS device and Apple TV, and you’ll be able to use Siri commands to remotely control your accessories.
This functionality is particularly useful for tasks such as turning off lights, adjusting thermostats, or even locking doors. For instance, if you forget to turn off the lights before leaving the house, you can simply use Siri on your iPhone to switch them off remotely. This not only adds convenience but also enhances the security and energy efficiency of your home.
Expanding HomeKit Ecosystem
Apple has also now listed all of the new Apple HomeKit accessories on its website that have launched to date. These accessories range from smart lights and thermostats to security cameras and door locks. The HomeKit ecosystem is rapidly expanding, with more manufacturers joining the platform to offer a wide variety of compatible devices. This growth is expected to continue, with a number of other new devices anticipated to launch in the next few months.
For example, companies like Philips, Honeywell, and August have already released HomeKit-compatible products. Philips Hue lights can be controlled to set the perfect ambiance, Honeywell thermostats can manage your home’s temperature efficiently, and August smart locks can provide enhanced security. These devices can all be controlled through the Home app on your iOS device or via Siri, making it easier than ever to manage your smart home.
We are also expecting Apple to launch a new Apple TV device at WWDC 2015 next month. This new device is expected to come with apps and games and may also feature Apple’s Siri. The inclusion of Siri could further enhance the functionality of Apple TV as a central hub for HomeKit devices, allowing for more intuitive voice commands and interactions.
In addition to the new hardware, Apple is likely to introduce software updates that will improve the overall user experience. These updates could include new features for HomeKit, such as enhanced automation options and better integration with other Apple services. For example, you might be able to create more complex automation routines that trigger multiple actions based on specific conditions, such as turning on the lights and adjusting the thermostat when you arrive home.
Source Apple, 9 to 5 Mac
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