These include compatibility across the Apple ecosystem and the hardware options.
Youll likely start building a HomeKit home with an iPhone.
HomeKit data is securely synchronized between devices and iCloud using iCloud Keychain.
Apple
The data is encrypted with end-to-end encryption and is only accessible by you.
Not even Apple can dive into the data.
All data about your home, accessories, scenes, and users are stored directly on the gear.
AlpakaVideo/Shutterstock
In practice, Ive never worried that anyone outsider would be able to access my HomeKit setup.
While its been a slow road, Matter continues to get even better.
Apple has fully embraced both Matter and the low-power Thread communication protocol.
Apple
All up-to-date Apple devices support Matter through the Home app.
And the second-generation HomePod and HomePod mini act as Matter hubs and Thread border routers.
Two Nice Smart Speaker Options
A smart speaker is an essential part of any smart home.
Apple
Its a perfect way to easily and quickly control smart home devices.
This was once an area Apple lagged in, with only the costly HomePod available.
But now, the smaller and less expensive HomePod mini offers a much better option for HomeKit users.
Amazon
While more costly than Amazons smart speakers, the sound quality is so much better for listening to music.
While I have a second-generation HomePod, I also have a few HomePod mini speakers in my home.
All videos are end-to-end encrypted for maximum security.
you could also take advantage of other unique features likefacial recognition for HomeKit Secure cameras and doorbells.
This feature can tell you who is in view of the camera.
While HomeKit Secure Video only records at 1080p quality, its a great way to use HomeKit.
But unfortunately, HomeKit puts a costly restriction on that feature.
Amazons Alexa still leads HomeKit in terms of users for many reasons.
One of those is the huge number of products compatible with the protocol.
HomeKit still strongly lags behind.
Amazon has several Echo smart speakers with a touchscreen.
Its a great way to control a smart home and takes a smart speaker to a new level.
Google Home also has many smart speakers with a touchscreen.
It’s More Costly Than Amazon Alexa
Another big part of creating a smart home is cost.
Once you factor in smart speakers and devices, it can become a costly proposition.
And Apple also lags behind Alexa in total cost.
If price is your top priority, Alexa wins out every time.
As you’re able to see, there are both some advantages and drawbacks to using Apple HomeKit.
But hopefully, my experiences can help you make a more informed decision when beginning your smart home journey.
