HomeKit stands out as one of Apple’s most ambitious and exciting endeavors. It integrates not just your iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch, and iPad, but also encompasses an interconnected ecosystem involving various smart devices in and around your home. With the introduction of Matter, the potential for achieving a seamlessly integrated smart home with HomeKit at its core has never been higher.

However, there are still features that are conspicuously absent, features that could elevate HomeKit from a mere option to the definitive smart home solution for Apple users. As WWDC 2023 approaches, we hope to see Tim Cook introduce these much-anticipated enhancements.

Enable Other Devices as Home Hubs

Currently, you can only set up a Home Hub using select Apple devices such as an iPad, Apple TV, or HomePod. The restrictions mean that neither a Mac nor the latest iPhones can serve as Home Hubs, let alone devices from other manufacturers. By allowing third-party devices to act as Home Hubs, Apple could dramatically broaden HomeKit's accessibility and appeal.

Personally, I find the HomePod's audio quality unappealing and don’t want one cluttering my home. iPads are too costly, and an Apple TV would be underutilized, given my existing streaming devices. On the other hand, I own several smart speakers like the Sonos Era 300, which have built-in microphones that would be perfect for HomeKit functions like turning off the lights.

Apple, consider opening up the Home Hub capability to other smart speakers or devices. It won’t diminish the HomeKit experience but will make the ecosystem more user-friendly and accessible.

Enhance Siri's Capabilities

Currently, Siri functions more like a glorified light switch that occasionally tells jokes. It's not particularly smart and offers limited functionality beyond simple tasks like adjusting the thermostat or setting kitchen timers. Ideally, Siri should evolve into the central command for HomeKit, becoming more entwined in our daily routines with its enhanced capabilities.

The rise of new, more advanced AI-powered assistants shines a light on Siri's potential for substantial upgrades. With these advancements, Siri could transition from its current state into a more powerful and useful component of the HomeKit ecosystem.

Expand Offline Features

Currently, HomeKit relies heavily on an active internet connection for seamless operation. This online dependency is advantageous for remote access to devices like security cameras and coffee machines. However, if the internet goes down, so does much of the HomeKit functionality, including essential items like smart doorbells.

To mitigate this, Apple could enable more offline functionalities. Once connected to the local network, devices should still be able to communicate internally even if the internet connection is lost. This could allow for offline functionalities like setting timers or playing music from a local library through voice commands, or even performing basic calculations—perfect for times when internet connectivity is an issue, like when you're deep into a baking session with flour-covered hands.

Improve Update Reliability and Refine the Home App UI

Updating HomePods can be hit or miss. Sometimes updates occur seamlessly, while other times they require manual checks. To streamline this process, Apple could make all updates automatic, ensuring users no longer have to worry about staying up to date.

Furthermore, the Home app’s user interface could use a significant overhaul. It is currently cluttered, making it easy to lose track of your most frequently used items. Clearer labeling and more intuitive custom sorting options would go a long way in enhancing user experience, especially when quick access to certain functions is necessary.

Best selling & Top trending HomeKit product in our shop at this moment

Twinkly Light Strings

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Aqara Smart Light Switch (No Neutral, Double Rocker) Plus Aqara Wireless Mini Switch, Requires AQARA HUB, Zigbee Connection, Remote Control and Set Timer for Home Automation

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eufy Security, Wireless Video Doorbell (Battery-Powered) with 2K HD, No Monthly Fee, On-Device AI for Human Detection, 2-Way Audio, Simple Self-Installation (Renewed)

Aqara Door and Window Sensor Plus Aqara Water Leak Sensor, REQUIRES AQARA HUB, Zigbee Connection, For Remote Monitoring, Alarm System and Smart Home Automation

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SMY Lighting Recessed LED Deck Light Kits, Outdoor LED Landscape Lighting IP67 Waterproof, 12V Low Voltage for Garden,Yard Steps,Stair,Patio,Floor,Kitchen Decoration

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