HomeKit Blog

HomeKit is Apple's home automation framework: it's what users use to integrate their products - lights, speakers, thermostats, sockets, sensors, locks and more - with iPhone, iPod, iPad, Mac, Apple TV and HomePod. Thanks to HomeKit, these accessories can be safer, easier to use and, best of all, they are triggered with Siri.

So why is it called "HomeKit"?

The other "Kit" name schemes follow, combining "Home" (for home automation) with "Kit" (short for software developer kit or SDK). Thus, HomeKit.

How does HomeKit work?

It's pretty cool. Using the Home app or a HomeKit compatible app, configure Homes and Rooms that can contain various accessories. Then set up scenes and automation to control those accessories. The result is a powerful, flexible system for controlling everything from a single bulb to the entire connected home, all on your iOS, HomePod or Siri device.

Want all the details? Read our full explainer HomeKit!

Why do we need HomeKit? Do home automation accessories already work with iPhone using third-party applications?

Many do, but without HomeKit, these accessories had to create custom solutions that were often incompatible with their siblings, with varying degrees of security. This means that your smart lights can't talk to your thermostat or connect to a unified service that controls everything at the same time - you have to manually jump and change them in the app. Not only are HomeKit accessories capable of talking to each other in the Home app, but you'll be able to communicate with everyone using Siri.

Wait, can HomeKit accessories use Siri?

Yes! After you've set up your accessories, you can say things like "turn on the lights in the kitchen" to see what you're cooking or "good night!" to stop your whole house. We personally like to set the "movie mode" for lights, speakers and TV and "block the compound!" to close everything. For some more ideas on what you can say for Siri for home control, take a look at the list I have compiled below.

How to use Siri with HomeKit accessories

So is the Home app what makes everything compatible?

Somewhat. The Home app works as a unified interface and has full touch controls. So you can do everything you need to do even from the app. With Siri, however, you can control everything from anywhere using just the voice.

Once you've set up an accessory in the Home app, you can control it with Siri. Configure multiple accessories and you can control them all with Siri. As such, once home automation devices are enabled, you can use third-party applications if you want or need just a few clicks. But you can only use Siri with the sound of your voice.

How to use Siri with HomeKit accessories

What makes HomeKit safer?

At its core, HomeKit implements end-to-end encryption between all accessories and the iOS device, making them more secure. This way, no third party can intercept or spoil your communications to try to take control of your home automation or steal data.

How does Apple ensure that any HomeKit accessory uses the company's security framework?

Any accessory manufacturer that wants to develop HomeKit accessories must join Apple's Made for iPhone (MFI) certification program, which requires the use of the HomeKit security system.

How does the MFI program work?

When an accessory manufacturer wants to certify its product with Apple and receive MFI approval, the company must first present its plans.

Next, it features a prototype, in which Apple checks all the application programming interfaces (APIs) that the device implements, along with how HomeKit integrates with its security aspects.

Apple also ensures that the associated third-party accessory application meets the strict requirements of the App Store.

If these steps go well and the prototype is approved, the accessory can go into production.

Apple also provides MFI logos on any certified device's packaging, recognizing that it has gone through the MFI process and has been certified for compatibility and security.

Finally, Apple makes sure that the final products and applications match the approved prototype, and then everything is delivered, including the accompanying apps from the App Store.

How long has HomeKit been around?

HomeKit was actually first announced at the Apple World Developers Conference - WWDC - in 2014. It was introduced by senior vice president of software engineering, Craig Federighi and featured on the main stage. The first MFI certified devices for HomeKit accessed the stores a year later.

What took so long to appear?

All that MFI stuff. HomeKit was announced in 2014, and Apple has started taking MFI communications from falling manufacturers. The manufacturers presented some prototype products at CES in 2015 and the first wave of these products starting in the summer. However, the process took about a year - including the time required to shake off first-generation software and hardware and to ensure that Siri security and integration work properly.

What HomeKit products are available now?

Since HomeKit has been around for a few years, there are stores available in stores. Some of our favorites include the Philips Hue lighting product line as well as the Lutron Cassette wall switches. Check out the links below for our list of the best HomeKit products available.

What kind of accessories are available?

HomeKit supports many different types of accessories and adds more with each version of iOS. Here is the current list of supported devices according to the Apple HomeKit Accessory page.

• louver
• Contact sensors
• Alarm systems
• Smart plugs
• Light switches
• sprinklers
• Lamps
• Temperature sensors
• lamps
• speakers
• Televisions
• Locks
• Air purifiers
• fans
• Air conditioning
• Light strips
• Showers
• buttons
• Garage door openers
• diffusers
• humidifiers
• Movement sensors
• Air quality sensors
• Humidity sensors
• receivers
• thermostats
• Photo cameras
• Sounders

If they already have some smart home devices, will they magically upgrade to HomeKit?

May be. This is related to the HomeKit security requirements and the MFI testing process. Some devices that have not been delivered with HomeKit support can be added to HomeKit if they connect to a bridge or hub. An example of this is the Philips Hue bulbs that connect using Zigbee technology to the Philips Hue bridge. The bulbs themselves were not made to HomeKit compliant specifications, but the bridge can be added to HomeKit. Apple also has an authentication program based on HomeKit software that can add HomeKit support to devices that do not connect to a bridge. This method allowed devices such as the Wemo Mini smart jack to add HomeKit compatibility after it was already on the market.

What about support for (this accessory)? I want HomeKit in my house now!

Stay tuned! As I said above, device manufacturers can add HomeKit by software authentication or via a bridge. However, it is best not to assume that HomeKit will be added after you purchase, unless the manufacturer has announced its intentions, and even then it may not be added for a period. If you want to ensure HomeKit compatibility, make sure you purchase only products that have the "Works with HomeKit" logo on its packaging.

How do I configure my HomeKit accessories?

Setting up HomeKit accessories is easy. Simply open the Home app, tap on how to add the accessory, and then scan your HomeKit device code. A while later, your device will be ready for application control or Siri. Do you want specific steps to add accessories? I covered you in our guide.

How to configure HomeKit accessories

What does HomeKit work for? IPhone only?

More! HomeKit currently works with any iPhone, iPad or iPod touch that can run iOS 8.1. (The latest version of iOS, of course, would be the best). You can also control HomeKit accessories through the Home app on an Apple Watch and via Siri on Apple TV (4th generation or later) and HomePod.

Is there a Home app for Apple TV?

Not now. However, you can control HomeKit accessories and scenes via Siri on a 4th generation Apple TV or later using the Siri remote control. There are also some third-party HomeKit applications available on Apple TV that can display streams from HomeKit cameras and, of course, switch and turn off devices through visual interaction.

Do I need an Apple TV for remote access?

Depending on your accessory, some accessories may have their own cloud-based infrastructure configured to facilitate device control through their own application. However, accessories that connect directly to HomeKit via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi may require a HomeKit hub for remote access. HomeKit centers include 3rd generation Apple TV or later, iPad and HomePod. Once one of these devices is configured as the HomeKit hub, you can send orders through the Home or Siri app from anywhere in the world. For a more in-depth look at how an Apple TV works as a HomeKit hub, take a look at the following guide.

Everything you need to know about Apple TV and HomeKit

Does HomeKit work with Apple Watch?

Of course! You can use the Home app directly on an Apple Watch and you can use Siri voice commands if your watch is running WatchOS 2 or later. See our guide below for more information on HomeKit and Apple Watch.

How to use the Home app on Apple Watch

Can I set a program for accessories or turn on my lights when I pass a motion sensor?

Yes! With the Home app, you can set programs based on time or a certain part of the day, such as sunset. You can also configure your devices to automatically turn on or off using location geo-fences. For more complex actions, such as turning on a light when a motion sensor detects movement, you can create automation. For more on automation and how to configure it, see our guide below.

How to create automation and scenes in iOS Home

Can I share access to HomeKit accessories with friends and family?

You certainly can! Allowing other people to access your HomeKit accessories is as simple as sending an invitation to your home through the Home app. Once they've accepted your invitation, you can set limits on when they can access your devices and whether they can remove or edit accessories. Check out our Home user guide to invite others and control the permissions below.

How to add users to your HomeKit home

I need help with my HomeKit accessories!

Don't worry, most HomeKit problems are easy to remedy and require a few clicks to reconnect or reset. We've covered the most common issues in our helpful guide, take a look if you need help.

How to fix HomeKit accessories

Other questions?

Do you have a question about HomeKit that I didn't answer? Holler in the comments.

Updated August 2019: Updated for iOS 12.

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Video bells are one of the staples of the smart home, due to their ability to track packages and housing in a compact, easy-to-install package. Each ringer has its own unique characteristics and price structures, although all offer certain essential features. These features include 2-way communication to talk to your door, notifications and, of course, video recording, and offers all of the convenience of an application.

RemoBell S Video Doorbell is an affordable alternative for established players on the market, offering all the basics of connected doorbell ringing, at a reduced cost up front and without subscriptions. We recently set up the RemoBell offer and were pleased to see that it offers everything as advertised, making it a must if you are shopping for video bells connected.

essentials and more

RemoBell S Video Doorbell: Features

RemoBell S Video Doorbell has a mostly black design, which is similar in shape to the classic rectangular bell. Despite this shape resemblance, this ringer is significantly larger than its "mute" counterparts and will certainly stand out to visitors as something that is not common. On the front of the device is a circular chamber positioned at the top, a small microphone that allows 2-way communication and a large silver button with an LED ring surrounding it. During normal operation, the LED ring glows blue, giving guests a clear indication of where the door bell is, which is particularly useful at night. Even though the device is made mostly of plastics, the RemoBell S is weather resistant and is capable of withstanding temperatures from -4 degrees to 122 degrees, allowing it to operate year-round in most climates.

The overall image quality of the RemoBell S is clean and crisp, delivering HD video power to your front door with a resolution of 1536 x 1536. While the camera does not have 4K and does not support supplements such as HDR, the RemoBell S is definitely good enough for most applications because it is primarily designed to provide close-up images. There are 3 quality settings in the application and it is set as default by default, but exact specifications surrounding the resolution of each setting are not available. The camera has a 180-degree field of view, providing a wide picture that is capable of covering more than just the direct area in front of your door and in some cases can show a whole porch. By default, this 180-degree view results in a circularly-shaped video stream, which is a little weird, but a setting is available to return to a more traditional video view. Infrared lighting is also included for night vision, and the app has options to adjust the "brightness regions" to help in situations where the ringer view can be difficult to see in bright areas.

In addition to notifying visitors who have pressed the bell button, RemoBell S can send notifications for movement events in general, which is a general security feature. However, in our testing, the notifications received did not include a thumbnail preview of any event, forcing users to open the application to see who or what is at the door. When a notification is reached, you are immediately sent to a live view, with options to respond or ignore the event. The response during the live view will present an additional button to talk to your visitors, as well as a final button, which is simple but effective. The audio quality was adequate on both ends, which was good enough to be able to decipher what each side was saying, but I noticed a few occasional hints in the form of robot-like sounds.

low price, no subscription

RemoBell S Video Doorbell: What I like

For the most part, RemoBell S was easy to install, coming in less than half an hour in our case, due to its easy-to-follow instructions and its included materials. Inside the box was more than just the device itself, including handy screwdrivers, drills, optional angled wedges, fixing screws and wire nuts, which should cover almost all installation scenarios. The longest part of the installation was the installation of our existing door climate, which, although light, was slightly annoying because it requires the use of wire nuts and not a jumper set like other video bells. Pairing the ringer with the RemoBell application was also a quick and easy process, which involves creating an account and adding the ringer to your home Wi-Fi network.

The biggest selling point for RemoBell S is, of course, its free 3-day cloud storage, available without entering credit card information.

The RemoBell application itself has a simple design, fill features and settings in a menu that is not discreet for camera viewing. In-app navigation was as easy as it was fluid and sensitive, allowing us to jump in and out of a stream of live cameras, and changing settings took place almost instantly. In the settings menu, additional features, such as moving zone settings, are available. Moving areas are one of those features that are usually hidden based on a subscription fee, but we are happy to report that it is not the case with RemoBell S. Setting an area is easy, the view of the room is divided into sections, each of which is activates and stops only with a tap. Our only problem with this process is that the application does not display the live view of your camera when you set up an area, which makes switching a section a kind of guessing game, which will take some trial and error.

The biggest selling point for RemoBell S is, of course, its free 3-day cloud storage, available without entering credit card information. Simply installing and registering the ringer is sufficient, without warning to activate the function, as it is implicitly implicit. The included storage allows you to download and share recordings, allowing you to save videos before deleting during the free 3-day period. There are additional plans, such as a 30-day storage option, starting at $ 3 per month or $ 30 per year, but this is entirely optional, and during our testing, we never saw a mention of it. in the app, which was a pleasant surprise as we waited to see banners or annoying prompts. In fact, in its current form, most users will never know that additional options are available, which is certainly nice to see.

HomeKit is not included

RemoBell S Video Doorbell: What I don't like

Although it seems to be the same for the course, when it comes to door bells, it's still a little disappointing to see that RemoBell S Video Doorbell doesn't support AppleKomeKit or Siri. This means that all doorbell interactions occur either in the Remo app or through integration with other platforms, such as Alexa, Amazon, Google Assistant or IFTTT. The Remo app is certainly enough to meet most needs, but I noticed that the app doesn't support full screen mode on our iPad.

As for the hardware side of things, I found the RemoBell S to be a bit bulky and could use a few extra color options to better hide its smart features and blend in with its surroundings. As we mentioned earlier, we would have liked to have seen a jumper cable set for existing door quarries as well. The included portion that attaches to your career is simple in nature, but placing it inside the chimney case may be a bit complicated depending on the space available, and a simple jumper design could eliminate this altogether. The only other problem I saw was that the night vision was not as good as the competitors, limiting our vision to things in the dark and is something that may need additional lighting to help clarify things.

Bottom line

RemoBell S Video Doorbell

4
out of 5

RemoBell S Video Doorbell is an easy-to-configure option that offers all the essentials without a high price or subscription. This ringtone features HD video quality, night vision, two-way audio, motion areas and free cloud storage in the box, making it easy to recommend for those who want the most buck sound. Even with its low price point, the RemoBell S includes add-ons such as the tools needed for installation, and its application is easy to use and does not advise you to move to a paid storage plan. Motion alerts and ring notifications are sent within seconds of the event, and the live view gives a clear picture of who is at the door, allowing for security and convenience. While it may not have the best video quality or all the features that some of its competitors offer, RemoBell S is definitely a good option for most and certainly worth considering due to the low price and lack of subscription. .

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Motion sensors are a fundamental element of the modern smart home, with a multitude of options available for all our favorite platforms at home. In theory, smart motion sensors are there to help light in the dark and save energy when you leave for the next day. However, some sensors suffer from slow speeds or motion detection, which is simply reliable, which makes them frustrated but convincing enough to keep around.

When the Caseta de Lutron Wireless Motion Sensor was announced last month at CES 2020, I was immediately intrigued by the company's claims of better detection 3X better than the competition. The prospect of having a motion sensor that could not only meet my fast response time requirements, potential HomeKit compatibility, and integration with my Caséta Wireless rock-solid switches and lamp dimmers certainly excited me for its launch.

I recently installed the Caséta wireless motion sensor in my home and I can say for sure that my excitement for it was justified, because I finally found a sensor that actually works as intended. I can now enjoy the house of the future, where one of my rooms instantly lights up just by entering, stays on until I leave the room and, of course, turns off, all without having to use the wall switches, voice control or an application.

Movement and occupation

Caséta Wireless Motion Sensor: features

The Caséta wireless motion sensor offers a white-plastic plastic design, with the typical "window" that allows it to detect motion in its 180-degree field of view. Passive infrared (PIR) sensors housed indoors are capable of detecting heat signatures from those in its viewfinder, combined with those of Lutron XCT technology that he used for years in his non-intelligent sensors to detect fine movements.

Also, there are several physical buttons on the sensor, two located at the top, which are used to test the operation and to illuminate a small LED light behind the window. There are three additional back buttons, which are used for setting time periods, adjusting the sensitivity and changing the default sensor settings. The default Lutron settings include auto-on and off lights with a 15 minute time delay and low sensitivity, which should work for most applications. The sensor also uses occupancy as a factor when it switches on the lights, preventing it from leaving you in the dark after a set period of time.

The Lutron sensor is completely wireless, relying on a small CR123 battery for power and RF for connectivity to the Casseta switch and hub. Using RF allows the motion sensor to draw power compared to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and allows faster and more stable connections. Lutron says the motion sensor can last up to 10 years before needing a battery replacement, which is just all sorts of crazy. Although it is a bit early to say, I can certainly see this being the case, as I have not yet encountered one of the company's Pico remote controllers that needed a battery replacement in my home.

The Casétaale Wireless Motion Sensor offers several mounting options in the box, and the sensor can be upright, allowing it to be located almost anywhere except the outside. Lutron includes a corner mounting bracket, a flat mounting bracket, screws, gypsum board anchors, 3M Command Strip and the required battery.

I light up quickly

Caséta Wireless Motion Sensor: What I like

Configuring the Caséta wireless motion sensor has been a quick and easy problem, coming to the top of about 5 minutes, since opening the box, inserting the included battery and associating it in the Caséta application. The tower-like design of the motion sensor meant I could just sit it down and start testing it right away with my lights and I liked that Lutron covered almost all the basics when it comes to options. mounting.

Of course, being a motion sensor, response times and reliability are paramount and I am happy to say that Lutron's offer exceeded my expectations. In my house, I currently have about 40 Caséta Wireless light switches / dimmers, dimmer lamp modules and remote controls, so yes, I'm used to their solid reliability. However, I have experimented with many HomeKit motion sensors over the years and while some of them are reliable, there are those cases where for one reason or another they simply are missing when I walk into room, which brings the magic out of the connected home.

Using terms such as "going in" and "instantly" to describe how fast the process seems is almost an understatement, as the sensor works unlike any other.

This was not the case with the Caséta wireless motion sensor. Now, I have been testing the sensor for only a few days, but I can say that I have not seen a court in which the motion sensor failed. Going to my utility room, where I positioned the sensor, as it is our main entry point into the house, it instantly turns on the air lights.

Using terms such as "going in" and "instantly" to describe how fast the process seems is almost an understatement, as the sensor works unlike any other. When the sensor picks up, which happens before it is even in sight, it sends the controls to the connected light switch and turns on the lights. With other motion sensors, you can take a step or two in the room before the sensor reacts, but with this sensor, the lights turn on before entering the first leg.

The whole experience is impressive to say the least, considering all the steps involved in doing this: motion detection, sending the command to the Caséta Wireless Hub, which then sends the light switch command, and the lights turn on effectively.

Big and tall

Caséta Wireless Motion Sensor: What I do not like

It simply doesn't deny that the Caséta wireless motion sensor is massive compared to others available on the market. Although slim, the height of the sensor is easily double as compared to the others, making it known to anyone in the room. One might think that, due to its bulky frame, it would pack in other sensors, such as temperature and humidity, but no, this whole dimension is strictly dedicated to motion detection.

Despite its large size, the sensor is also incredibly light, which, when combined with its easy-to-find plastic housing, makes it feel pretty cheap. Fortunately, a motion sensor is not the kind of accessory you often wear, but it does put some doubt in your mind about how well it will last over time.

Also missing are the features available in the Caséta Wireless application for motion sensor. Options that can be set are the occupancy and vacation states, as well as assigning which lights turn on and off depending on the sensor's activity, however, there is no way to set the intervals without having to physically adjust the sensor switches itself, which is not very convenient.

The biggest disadvantage of the Caséta wireless motion sensor, however, is that it does not support Apple's HomeKit smart platform, which is quite surprising. The Caséta Wireless line has always been one that is right there, with HomeKit support as soon as the products are launched, making it a head scratcher. I asked about the missing function and was told that it is simply not compatible, but I still hope it was not ready for launch and that an update will come in the future.

Extended range

Smart Cassette Wireless Repeater

While I have not yet addressed issues surrounding the coverage of my existing Caséta Wireless installation, Lutron recently launched a compact solution for larger homes. The Caséta Smart Wireless Repeater is a small white plastic box that not only looks similar to the company's smart deck, but happens to be exactly the same size.

The repeater has the same LED light that wraps around the front and only has one button used to add accessories to the back. In the box is a small 5v power adapter, which connects to the repeater using micro-USB, which allows direct connection to USB ports without having the bulky adapter if you want.

Configuring the repeater simply involves connecting it and associating it with the Caséta application. Lutron's repeater requires the Caséta Wireless Bridge to be located 60 meters away, but adds another 2,500 square meters of coverage. Since I didn't have coverage issues in my house a bit smaller, I can't say for sure whether the accessories are better connected or not during my tests, but I would expect them to work as advertised as needed.

$ 75 at Amazon

Fast and reliable

Caséta Wireless Motion Sensor: Bottom line

4.5
out of 5

Even though the Caséta wireless motion sensor is not the most compact and the best option around, it excels in the areas that matter most: response speed and reliability. The Caséta Wireless Motion Sensor is fast, extremely fast, turning on the lights exactly when they notice the activity, which is almost magical compared to other solutions that rely on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

The Caséta Wireless motion sensor also offers the same solid reliability as other Caséta Wireless products, which means it only works, ready to respond at any time. This sensor is so good that I'm comfortable using it with HomeKit and automation, which unfortunately is not available right now. If that day ever came, this sensor would be pretty perfect.

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Smart door locks and door locks are one of the largest categories in the smart home world, due to their ability to check the state of our entry points while traveling. Forgot to lock the door at the exit? A smart jam can put your mind off the ground. Do you want to know when a door opens? You can deal with notifications through an app on your phone. Do you have to let someone take something? Just assign them a code or unlock the door with a faucet. These smart accessories are simply priceless.

As you may have guessed, I already have some smart locks / locks in my house, but as long as there are doors to cover, I will continue to install them. My most recent installation was the Century model of the Schlbol Sense Smart Deadbolt line, which was one of the best experiences I have had with a jam so far.

The Deadbolt was easy to install, requiring only one tool, and thanks to HomeKit, it was ready for all Siri and the kindness of the application in minutes. The Century model is also easy on the eyes, at least on the outside, and the slightly added bonuses, such as a built-in alarm, make it a solid choice for anyone on the market.

Clean design

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: features

The Schlage Sense line comes in two different cutting models, the sleek modern Century look and a more traditional Camelot model. Each model comes in two finishes, sharing a standard Nickel Satin color, but things are different for the darker versions, with Century getting a matte black style compared to the older bronze. Both models have a touch-based illuminated keyboard on the outside, but have a different font to better fit the overall theme.

In addition to a keyboard for quick entry, Schlage Sense has a spare 1-key physical key cylinder included in the box. Deadbolt connects to HomeKit via Bluetooth, keeping power consumption low as it runs on 4 AA batteries, which are also included, fortunately. Schlage says the lock should work about a year before its batteries are replaced and suggests replacing them with the smoke detector batteries to stay on top. While I can't think of how long the battery life will last, with the lock being installed for just over a week, I can report that the Schlage Home app looks 100% on my batteries even after my initial testing.

Schlage hardware is listed as a BHMA (Association of Manufacturers of Hardware Manufacturers) certificate with AAA rating in terms of safety, durability and finish. Schlage offers a 3-year limited warranty for Sense's electrical components and a limited lifetime warranty for mechanical parts and finishes. Unlike some of the other smart locks we have installed, Schlage includes a reinforcement plate and extra-long screws in the box, which are required to perform at BHMA-certified security levels.

Another unique feature of the lock is that it includes a built-in alarm. This alarm allows it to ring when it detects any forced entry attempts and can act as a rudder to warn those in the house if the door opens or closes. While alarm and alarm features can be replicated by HomeKit automation with speakers or other accessories, it's nice to see it built-in to make sure something will always be available if a problem arises.

Smart connectivity is powered by Bluetooth, connecting the lock directly to your phone or a smart home platform, such as HomeKit. To access remotely the deadlock requires a HomeKit hub, such as Apple TV, HomePod or iPad, and for those who do not use HomeKit, a Wi-Fi adapter is required to connect the Bluetooth connection to the local network. There are no subscriptions for additional features, and in its configuration in the box using only Bluetooth, there are no clouds involved. Smart features include standards such as application access, assignable pin codes, schedules and status reports through a connected voice assistant.

HomeKit is ready

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: What I like

Installing Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt was a breeze, which took less than 20 minutes from start to finish and only required a screwdriver. Once installed, pairing the deadbolt to the Apple HomeKit was also pretty easy, with a simple scan of the included HomeKit code and it was ready to start. Downloading and installing Schlage Home is completely optional, bypassing the need to create another account, which is a huge plus in my book.

For additional controls and settings, however, the Schlage Home application is required, and for these purposes, the work is done with minor distractions. In-app settings include deactivating the built-in alarm, keypad beeps, auto-lock delay, and 1-touch lock, all accessible with simple switches. Some security settings, such as forced entry, are set as default, which I found a bit strange, but it was painless enough to activate.

Sensitive in terms of performance, Schlage Sense worked admirably, always showing at home through the app and always responding to commands by app and voice.

Sensitive in terms of performance, Schlage Sense worked admirably, always showing at home through the app and always responding to commands by app and voice. The touch portion of the keyboard on the outer portion of the lock is also sensitive, catching a discoloration effect when activated. The Deadbolt turns smoothly, manually and via remote controls, but, like other smart solutions, it is somewhat noisy when in use.

Access codes can also be assigned within the application, allowing up to 30 unique codes to be assigned to friends, family or guests. I liked the way the application allowed codes that use more than just 4 digits, supporting up to 8 in total, which is nice to see for a little peace of mind. I also liked how the Schlage Sense app could limit and when codes could be used, preventing access to the home outside of set times, which might be useful for visitor recurrence or simply, a nice thing to have if you forget to disable a code.

Junk in the trunk

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: What I do not like

Despite the front or outer portion of Schlage Sense, which has one of the best looks around, the interior assembly part is not as elegant. Compared to one of my existing smart locks, Reagle Smart Deadbolt, Schlage Sense is both wider and taller, and extends even further out the door. I suppose this is because Schlage's offer has a built-in alarm, but it doesn't come out as a big toe, screaming it's a connected lock.

As mentioned above, Schlage Sense has been extremely reliable since the installation, responding to every order sent through the Home and Siri application. However, since Sense uses Bluetooth for connectivity, it may take a while for the lock to secure your door or unlock it once a command is sent. Executing an initial command to say, lock the door took about 5 seconds on average, and subsequent orders take 2-3 seconds if sent within a few moments.

I will notice that the response time of the Sense is quite equal for the course with Bluetooth accessories, so it is not a defect of the jam itself, and the speed can, of course, vary according to proximity. Speaking of Bluetooth, Schlage Sense can connect to the Apple HomeKit right out of the box. Since I'm completely immersed in everything, HomeKit didn't stop me from integrating it into my home, but those living the Alexa and Google Assistant lives will need a Wi-Fi adapter to add a little more price.

Elegant and smart

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: Bottom line

4
out of 5

When it comes to smart locks, the Schlage Sense line is simply one of the best for its combination of security, reliability, good looks and easy installation. Reinforced hardware, a built-in alarm and a secure-local connection to HomeKit keep access to your home in your hands. However, if your needs are evolving and you want to connect it to a web service, such as Alexa or Google Assistant, you can have an optional adapter, putting it back in control.

Schlage Sense is also very reliable, always ready for orders or for a quick on-demand status check via the Home, Schlage or Siri application. Reliability is also enhanced by a fantastic guarantee policy, protecting the investment for years to come. The Century of the Sense model, with its modern design and elegant keyboard, also happens to have one of the best deadbolt designs available, making the entire package an absolute winner.

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While much of the smart home smart world is inside your home, there is a growing market for convenient solutions for the outdoor atmosphere. Security cameras and video bells are some of the most common outdoor accessories. However, smart weather-resistant lighting is also becoming more mainstream, with light bands and light bulbs driving the charge.

Other types of outdoor lighting also slowly get a smart design, including classic flood light. I recently created a pair of Novostella smart LED projectors for my home and was pleasantly surprised at how much connected technology can fit into a small, yet powerful, accessory and still maintain the level of weather resistance needed to function. in the toughest. elements. I can certainly see that this type of accessory is commonplace in the near future, although it needs a few refinements to bring it to fruition.

Classic connected

Novostella Smart LED Projector: features

The Novostella Smart LED projectors, which are sold in pairs, have a rather unobtrusive design, which is mostly black, with a large window in front of a LED bench. The projectors do not have physical buttons or switches on the device, all controls coming from an application or by voice using Amazon's Alexa or Amazon Assistant. The bulbs are weatherproof, with an IP 66 rating, which is usually referred to as full dust protection, in addition to high pressure water protection.

Behind the headlights, there is a support that rotates on the top or bottom and has screw holes for fixing it to the side of the house. A 3-foot power cord is supported at the bottom, and along the top of the headlights is a terminal for a screw antenna, which is optional, but adds an increased wireless range.

The smart part of the bulbs is only activated via Wi-Fi connectivity only on the 2.4 GHz band. The projectors connect directly to the home network without the need for a separate hub and no subscription fees are involved, just a simple registration is all that is needed to get everything up and running.

In terms of lighting, Novostella Floodlights supports what appears to be the industry standard of 16 million different shades of color and white. The projectors can be completely reduced and are capable of reaching up to 2,000 lumens of light using only 20 watts of energy. Each flooded light projects its illumination at an angle of 120 degrees and no additional supplements such as motion detection or more color areas are included.

Robust exterior

Novostella Smart LED Projector: What I like

When the Novostella Smart LED projectors came in, I was immediately surprised at how compact they were and I was amazed that the company managed to pack two of the packages. I was also surprised by the built-in quality of the lights, as they appear to be made of solid aluminum, which makes them quite heavy and gives me the impression that they will stand the test of time.

Even the power cord itself felt substantial, and the place where it connects to the inside of the light was rigid and had what appeared to be a bushing that was really meant to hold water. The mounting bracket or portion was also made of aluminum and I liked that the flood light can be mounted in various directions, although I will note that the actual mounting screws are not included. The Wi-Fi antenna is removable, which is nice if you intend to keep your lights near your home router and give the whole package a much cleaner look.

Turning on the lights for the first time I immediately lit them to maximum intensity with a clean white light, which gave me no doubt that they could reach the claims of 2,000 lumens. The colors on the headlamps were also bright and vivid, the color reproduction being the same as most other intelligent lighting, each with adjustable temperatures.

The color, brightness and temperature settings were quick and easy in the associated application, with various slide and color wheels available. Preset colors are also available, putting some of the more common patterns, such as a "read mode", only on a tap, though most do not align quite well with exterior lighting. The changes sent from the application occurred quite instantaneously, due to its direct connection to the network via Wi-Fi.

Mating problems

Novostella Smart LED Projector: What I do not like

Setting up the Novostella Smart LED headlamps was an interesting experience, to say the least. While Novostella includes a QR code in the user's guide to direct you to the list of applications for the appropriate application, the application itself is not marked for company or lights. Instead, the app seems to use a captivating approach, which lists a wide range of accessories that can work with a bunch of different brands, including one from my recent reviews.

As the application is not specific to flood light, the steps, images and terminology of the user manual do not align quite well with what is actually presented. Obviously, this created some confusion, but I managed to get to the pairing process after randomly choosing a Wi-Fi bulb as an accessory, where I was presented with another problem: my lights were not ready for pairing. box. Turning on the lights caused them to stay on and not blink fast, as indicated by the application to indicate they are ready to squeeze.

Instead, I had to perform a light reset, which involved turning it off and back on it about five times quickly. This process was no longer aligned with the reset process in the application, but I thought the flood light does not have a manual power switch on it, this was the way to finish the job. Of course, the experience of the application is why I prefer accessories that work with Apple's HomeKit platform, because it offers consistency, but unfortunately, Novostella headlights do not support it.

As for the hardware side of things, I discovered that I couldn't stand in the vertical light, as shown on the marketing material. This is due to the design of the flood light, with its Wi-Fi antenna projecting from one end and the heavy power cord that attaches to the other. You can choose not to install the antenna, but it will limit the range and cause the power cord to sit at the top of the light, which looks kind of weird and probably not good for weather resistance. Speaking of cord, I thought it was quite short (3 feet), although it guarantees that it will need an extension for outdoor placement.

Mixed bag

Novostella Smart LED Projector: Bottom line

3
out of 5

Finally, the Novostella Smart LED Floodlight is somewhat of a mixed bag. On the one hand, the stable, robust and weather-resistant exterior, accompanied by bright and clear colors, makes it suitable for most outdoor lighting needs. However, the process of pairing less than stellar, short cord and faulty stand design, prevent it from being one of the markings in the category.

Of course, you can get a lot out of the Novostella Smart LED spotlight if you are willing to put in a little work. Mounting the headlight with its own screws can avoid the problem of the support, offering its own extension cable can cancel the problem of the short cable and knowing the tricks for pairing can undoubtedly contribute to the quick start-up. However, for most people, it just seems to ask for the price of admission.

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Make no mistake, the classic filament bulb design is back here as well. These upgraded bulbs are not only elegant, but have the same energy savings as traditional LED bulbs, and for the past two years now, have added smart wireless technology for convenient controls.

We recently created a trio of intelligent bulbs with filament from the Bulbrite Solana line and I discovered that the fashionable design certainly adds a certain character to some pretty ordinary luminaires. This character comes not only from the "filaments" exposed inside their glass casing, but also from the adjustable temperature of their color, giving them the possibility to add yellow and white tones to any surrounding area, upon request. Needless to say, I'm a fan of the look and, of course, the smart ones.

Same, but different

Bulb bulb Solana Smart Filament: features

The Solana filament range extends into three different bulb shapes, the standard A19, G25 and ST18 Edison globes, each using a medium screw base that is compatible with most surrounding fixing bodies. The Solana bulbs are made of glass, with a small white support at the bottom, and inside are thin LED strips arranged in a cross-cut pattern to give the filament appearance.

All three bulbs are listed as consuming only 5.5 watts of energy when used, but larger variants are, for some reason, labeled as equivalent to 60 watts, compared to A19 being listed as 40 watts. Each bulb is capable of producing up to 600 lights again, despite the difference in commercialization. The bulbs only accept white light, although they are dim and adjustable, allowing users to adjust them from a soft white hue to daylight.

Lifespan is evaluated at just over 13 years with standard use, and Bulbrite offers a 2-year limited warranty. The bulbite states that the bulbs can be used outdoors in closed bodies. However, we could not find any information regarding the potential weather resistance and the company mentions that the life will be affected by extreme conditions. Also, Bulbrite says that the bulbs are only suitable for traditional light switches and lamps, and not for the ones in the dark of the variety.

Solana Line works with a free application, as well as Alexa and Google Assistant, for convenient checks without a subscription. The bulbs use 2.4ghz Wi-Fi for home network connectivity and work without a separate hub, which is nice, especially since all three sizes sell for under $ 20 each. In addition to the standard on and off controls, the Solana app has programming options and scene support.

Responsive controls

Bulb bulb Solana Smart Filament: What I like

Since the bulbs have all the hardware included even without the need for a hub, the installation simply involved screwing them into the lamps in my house. The association of the bulbs was also easy, at least for 2 of the 3 (more on this, in a bit), requiring something other than creating an account in the Solana application and selecting them after they were found.

Solana line control through the associated application was a fairly standard tariff, with sliders and switches that control the power, brightness and color temperature. Response times for adjustments were fast, changes could be seen almost instantly. I did not give any situation in which the bulbs failed to respond and were always available at the launch of the application without delay.

Overall, I found the app to be more than sufficient for everyday use, with a clean look and easily accessible controls. The only flaw I saw with the application was that the group or room controls looked exactly like an individual bulb control, which can be confusing at first for those trying to access a single bulb.

The bulbs themselves produced a clean white light and I liked being able to adjust the color temperature from a softer white or yellow, to more intense daylight upon request. I liked seeing the filament effect from the bulbs, especially at the lower brightness levels, and saw no problems with the blinking or humming with the lamp I tested. Solana bulbs have definitely beat the filament design, instantly giving my lamp a more elegant and industrial look.

2 of 3

Bulb bulb Solana Smart Filament: What I do not like

As mentioned earlier, the combination of the intelligent filament bulbs with the Solana Bulbrite filament was quick and easy for two of the three bulbs we tested. Unfortunately, a light bulb when first turned on did not blink fast. Instead, it was just lit, which meant that the Solana Bulbrite application couldn't see it when trying to pair it.

To remedy this, I had to perform a reset procedure that involved starting and stopping the luminaire quickly, a total of five or six times, with a door pause for one second between them. This was not the highest bid, but it was strange that one of them would even come out of the box and also give me reason to believe that these bulbs could be accidentally reset if you have members of the house who like to play with the light switches on.

Moving on to the hardware side of things, I found that the bulbs themselves were slightly larger than some of my existing bulbs, especially the ST 18 variant, which is comically large. Granted, these bulbs are meant to be seen and will not be used more than likely in closed or shaded bodies, but it is still something to keep in mind, as they might look out of place compared to the size of the socket they attach to.

I also found that the Bulbrite filament line was a bit on the weak side for my tastes, with 600 lumens just not packing enough power to function as lighting in the area. Even with the difference of "20 watts" in the name between the A19 and the larger globe and the Edison styles, each of them produces the same level of maximum brightness, which is just weird.

Finally, even if the Solana Bulbrite line supports Alexa and Google Assistant Amazon, it does not support Apple's HomeKit, which is quite boring. The bulbs also require an internet connection and a registered account to access them, which means you could be left in the dark if there is a home outage or if the company's cloud service has an outage. Sure, you can just go to the light switch on the wall or press a button on a lamp to turn them on or off if it's worse, but I would definitely prefer a local approach for connectivity.

Affordable alternative

Bulb bulb Solana Smart Filament: Bottom line

3.5
out of 5

Bulbrite Solana smart filament LED bulbs provide all the connected benefits, such as darkness and remote control, without breaking the bank. These bulbs are responsive, easy to set up and simply look with their fashionable design.

As with anything, there are definitely some downsides, such as their limited brightness output, internet requirement and lack of HomeKit support. If you can look into these issues, though, the Bulbrite Solana line is definitely one that needs to be considered for the next smart upgrade.

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If you have HomeKit accessories and an Apple TV, you might be wondering, why isn't there a Home app for my sweet home? Sure, you can use the universally recognized Siri remote control to send your HomeKit commands by voice, but sometimes it might be best to dim the lights or view the cameras with a touchpad. Fortunately, there are applications available that can help fill the gap! Here are some of the best HomeKit apps currently available for Apple TV.

HomeCam for HomeKit

HomeCam, the first HomeKit camera app, which is available for iOS, iPadOS and Apple Watch, happens to be on Apple TV as well. This app permanently puts your rooms with one click and even includes controls for accessories that are in the same room, hiding all the others that are not relevant.

If you have multiple cameras, you can set the app to cycle automatically across all your streams, keeping you up to date with all the action, but giving you the largest possible full screen view. If you prefer to be in control, you can simply switch the remote control to switch between all your rooms, which is just kind of cool.

Headquartered on the opposite end of the HomeKit control spectrum is HomeCenter for HomeKit. This app gives you access to all HomeKit accessories in a familiar grid view, including video cameras, putting the whole house in the palm of your hand.

HomeCenter also supports fine adjustments, such as lighting levels, colors, and temperature settings. A Favorites view lets you put passive sensors such as air quality and humidity accessories, which makes the entire TV feel like a huge control center.

Thermo Watch is an Apple TV application specially designed to control the heating and air of the house. This application works with HomeKit thermostats, such as ecobee, and gives you access to temperature control, mode switching and even fan switching, even from the Siri remote control.

In addition to HomeKit, the Thermo Watch also works with select Nest thermostats, which is huge for those who have been patiently waiting for support for Apple's smart home platform. If that wasn't enough, Thermo Watch is available on all your iOS and Apple Watch devices, which is quite late.

As its name suggests, DayView is a smart app that turns your Apple TV into a whole home dashboard. Up to six widgets can be added to the app, including local weather, news, stocks, calendar, clock, transfer hours, Twitter and, of course, HomeKit controls and camera workflows.

The best part about DayView is that it is completely free! There are no purchases, subscriptions or limitations in the application here. The only disadvantage? DayView is no longer supported, which means it may not work in future versions of tvOS, so get it while you can!

If HomeKit light control is all you need, then Emblazee can be the right app for you. Optimized for TVs, Emblazee has fast switching controls and a great color selection tool to set the perfect mood even from the comfort of your couch.

Emblazee also comes with an iOS, iPadOS and Apple Watch app, keeping everything familiar if you like the clean design. Additional features such as programming, scenes, zones and groups are available on smaller screens.

Streamie is another HomeKit app that helps you keep an eye on everything in and around your home. Using a classic grid room view, this app can display up to 16 cameras simultaneously, including those outside the HomeKit world that use RTSP protocol.

However, this app not only shows you the cameras, it can also pan, tilt and zoom your streams, and snapshots can be saved directly to a shared iCloud photo album. The app is free to try, confining you to just one room, but if that's all you have, then this is a great way to see how useful your Apple TV can be.

What do you use?

What HomeKit apps do you use for Apple TV? Do you know of a wonderful thing I missed? Tell us in the comments!

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