Apple Home and the HomeKit ecosystem isn't just for transforming your home into a futuristic haven The Jetsons would envy; it's about enhancing the safety and security of your living space, ensuring peace of mind whether you're at home or away.
Many traditional home safety features have evolved in the 21st century, becoming smarter and more integrated. This includes devices such as security cameras, door locks, and smoke detectors. So, how does a smart home translate to a safer home? Here are five top HomeKit devices to embark on your journey to a more secure abode, powered by Apple.
Smoke and CO Detector
Smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are essential safety devices in any home, and in many places, they are legally required. Upgrading these crucial devices with HomeKit compatibility can significantly enhance your home's safety. A smart smoke detector alerts you to the presence of smoke, a potential indicator of a fire. Similarly, a CO detector identifies the presence of this deadly, invisible gas. CO is odorless and colorless, making it extremely dangerous. Low exposure levels can cause serious health issues, and high doses can be fatal within minutes.
Fortunately, the best HomeKit smoke and CO detectors combine these functionalities into one sophisticated device, such as the First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound. Onelink offers several top-tier HomeKit-enabled CO and smoke detectors that provide the standard detection features and smart home integration, including critical alerts to your smartphone. This connectivity allows you to take immediate action, even if you're not at home, ensuring your family's safety from wherever you are.
Security Camera
The security camera is a cornerstone of home safety technology. Both indoor and outdoor cameras can provide numerous benefits. Visible security cameras can deter potential intruders, helping to prevent crime before it starts. In the unfortunate event of a break-in, vandalism, or theft, a smart security camera can assist in recovering lost items, making insurance claims, and even during legal proceedings.
Security cameras also offer peace of mind when you're away from home. You can check on pets or just ensure everything is in order. Smart cameras enable live feed access from all your devices using HomeKit Secure Video, safely storing footage in the cloud. Our guide to the best HomeKit security cameras includes options from brands like Eve and eufycam, but we particularly recommend the Logitech Circle, which is versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use.
Smart Door Lock
Five minutes after leaving the house, do you ever find yourself wondering, "Did we lock the door?" Locking your door is a fundamental aspect of home security, and a smart door lock can revolutionize this simple act, offering immense peace of mind. With a smart door lock, you can check and secure your door from anywhere in the world using your iPhone, ensuring you never have to stress about a forgotten lock again.
Many of the best HomeKit door locks in 2023 come with multiple access methods, including key, NFC from your iPhone or Apple Watch, biometric security like fingerprint recognition, and numeric passcodes. These features make accessing and securing your home easier for you while making unauthorized entry extremely difficult for intruders. Additionally, with global connectivity, you can lock, unlock, and check your door status from anywhere on the globe through your iPhone.
Water Sensor
One of the most underrated HomeKit devices is the water sensor. These sensors are strategically placed in areas prone to leaks or flooding, such as under sinks or near boilers, where they can detect unwanted water presence. Upon detecting a leak, these sensors alert you immediately, allowing you to shut off water supply and mitigate potential damage. The