One of the biggest challenges when it comes to technology in the home is finding a balance between style and functionality. Shades are a prime example of this dilemma. Technology enthusiasts want the latest features, while design-conscious individuals want something that looks technology-free. I recently installed some SmartWings blinds that are HomeKit-enabled, and they have quickly become one of my favorite smart home products. In this edition of HomeKit Weekly, we will take a closer look at the SmartWing HomeKit blinds, exploring their features, benefits, and why they are designer-approved.

HomeKit Weekly is a series that focuses on smart home accessories, home automation tips and tricks, and everything related to Apple's smart home framework.

Buying Process
Unlike many smart home products, HomeKit-enabled blinds and shades do not follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Every window is different, with various types of fabrics and openers. When I was selecting my SmartWings HomeKit blinds, I received a fabric swatch kit that allowed me to choose from a range of options to find the one that best suited my home. Once I made my choice, I was able to start the ordering process. While SmartWings blinds are available on Amazon and offer custom sizes, I found it easier to buy directly from their website. This way, I could determine the exact price based on my size requirements and the specific features I wanted.

Features include:
- Remote control options
- Mounting type
- Either way, you decide to purchase, you will receive the same product from both Amazon and SmartWings.

Installation Process
The installation process for the SmartWings HomeKit blinds involves installing the brackets, assembling the blinds, and then adding them to HomeKit. Overall, the physical assembly of the product was as simple as any other shade I've tried. The longer window in the video below required three brackets at the top, each with four screws. The entire process, from unpacking to assembly, took about 25 minutes after taking measurements. Thankfully, there is some flexibility in the product for assembly, so it doesn't have to be perfectly precise. Once assembled, you can hold the blinds up through the supports and screw them in place.

Adding to HomeKit
Similar to other HomeKit products, the SmartWings HomeKit blinds have a HomeKit code on the bottom of the product and on the actual engine itself. If the code is not visible on the blinds, take a picture of the code on the unit before mounting it as the code will be hidden. The only issue I encountered when adding the blinds to HomeKit was that the Home app displayed a warning that it was not a certified product. I chose to proceed by clicking "Add Anyway," and it has been working perfectly ever since. If you're curious about how the blinds actually work, check out the video below. Please note that the video may activate your HomePod and the closing speed has been accelerated.

Overall, the SmartWings HomeKit blinds have been a fantastic addition to our HomeKit environment. Like any product, they can be integrated with sensors or programmed to automatically open and close based on the time of day. You might also be wondering about their power source. After six hours of charging via USB-C, they can be opened and closed approximately 600 times. Conveniently, the USB-C port is easily accessible under the cover, allowing for easy charging without removing the blinds. SmartWings also provides a lengthy USB-A to USB-C cable.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the SmartWings HomeKit blinds. The fabric options satisfied my wife's desire for a visually appealing product while still meeting my technological expectations. We use HomeKit automations to automatically lower and raise the blinds at night and in the morning. Additionally, SmartWings provides a remote control with the product, allowing for manual adjustment of speed, maximum and minimum levels, without relying on Siri or HomeKit. The blinds are also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Begin your SmartWings HomeKit blinds journey by ordering a sample pack on Amazon or visiting the SmartWings website to start the purchasing process. FTC: We use monetized auto-affiliate links. More.