Roku streaming boxes and sticks are an excellent way to enjoy the most popular apps and services without investing in Apple's expensive option. And with HomeKit integration, you can enjoy most of the Apple TV's Smart Home features for a fraction of the price. We'll show you how to set up and use Apple HomeKit with your Roku device.

What you need to add your Roku to HomeKit
Image credits: Roku
With just a few clicks on your Roku remote and taps in the Home app on your iPhone, you're on your way to HomeKit convenience. Before you can get started, however, you need a few things. First check whether your streaming box or stick is compatible with Apple HomeKit. Most Roku streamers are supported, but we recommend checking the official Roku compatibility list to make sure your device is compatible. Next, your Roku should be up to date with the latest software. You can check for updates by going to Settings on your device, then System, then System Update. While technically any Roku will work with at least Roku OS 9.4, updating to the latest release will make the entire installation process smoother. Finally, you need to update your iPhone so that it is on the latest version of iOS. If you meet all these requirements, you can now add your Roku to Apple HomeKit.

Set up HomeKit on Roku
To add your Roku to Apple HomeKit, first grab your remote and turn on your TV. From the Roku main menu, navigate to Settings and click the OK button on your remote. Now highlight and click Apple AirPlay and HomeKit. Next, scroll down and then click Setup under HomeKit. After a short moment, your Roku will display the HomeKit pairing code for your device. From here, pairing your Roku works similarly to how you add a smart home product to Apple HomeKit. On your iPhone, launch the Home app, then tap the Add button in the top right corner of your screen. Tap Add Accessory to display your iPhone's camera, then scan the code on your TV. Then tap "Add to Home," assign it to a room, then tap "Continue." Name your Roku using your iPhone's keyboard, then tap Continue again. At this time, the Home app can provide automation suggestions. If desired, tap the toggle next to an automation, then tap Continue again. Finally, tap Done to complete the installation process.

Using the Home App and Siri with your Roku
After adding your Roku to HomeKit, you now have access to several useful control options. One is Siri voice commands, where you can use Apple's virtual assistant on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and HomePod to turn your Roku on or off. To use Siri to control your Roku, simply say, "Hey Siri, turn on the TV in the living room." This phrase obviously varies depending on the name of your Roku and its location in your HomeKit home. You can also now use the Home app on your Apple devices to control your Roku. Via the Home app, you can turn the power on and off with a tap through the settings screen of the device, just like you use a HomeKit accessory. Plus, you can create HomeKit scenes in the Apple Home app and put your Roku to good use with automation. For example, a scene can turn on your Roku, dim the lights, and close the blinds, while an automation can automatically turn off your streamer at night.

How to Control Your Roku Through the Control Center
Adding your Roku to HomeKit also unlocks the Control Center integration on your iPhone. To access the Control Center, swipe down from the top of your screen if you have a phone with Face ID, or from the bottom if it has a Touch ID button. Then tap the Remote Control icon to display a list of compatible TVs and set-top boxes in your home. If you don't see the Remote icon, you need to customize the Control Center on your iOS device. Once your Roku appears, tap it to reveal a virtual remote for your device. From here you can use the directional buttons to navigate your Roku and turn the power on or off without opening another app.

Unlock the Smart Home Potential of Your Roku with Apple HomeKit
Connecting your Roku to Apple HomeKit gives you access to a host of smart and useful features. Now you can control your Roku with Siri voice commands, Home app automation, and Control Center built into your iPhone and iPad.