Is HomeKit more secure?
Every smart home platform delivers a similar level of security, with data encrypted and every device for the HomeKit system approved by Apple.
While Apple has a reputation for security, it’s safe to say that in 2024, all three major smart home platforms have a similar level of user protection. How exactly does Apple say that it is more secure?
Well, Apple’s encryption occurs between the devices on your wifi, rather than in the cloud. This is why you need a HomeKit hub to control devices when you’re away from home, because the hub will encrypt your data before it ever gets sent to Apple’s cloud. This means data won’t be exposed, even to Apple employees.
It’s also worth knowing about HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV), which uses your iCloud plan to provide a secure view of live streams and recorded clips through compatible security products like video doorbells and security cameras.
HKSV means your recorded clips aren’t sent to the cloud for analysis, they’re instead analysed by your home hub (whether that’s an iPad, HomePod or Apple TV) and then sent to iCloud. Brands including Eufy, Eve and Netatmo offer cameras that support HKSV.
What can act as a HomeKit hub?
Because your HomeKit setup runs on your local wifi network, it’s essential that you add a hub if you want to control your devices while you’re out and about. Without one, you can still control all your devices through the Home app, but they won’t respond when you’re not on your personal network.
There are just three devices that work as a hub, the now discontinued original HomePod, the HomePod mini, or an Apple TV (3rd generation or later).
It has previously been possible to use an iPad as a hub if you left one at home, but this functionality was removed with an iOS software update.
What products work with HomeKit?
We’ve included several products that work with HomeKit on our list but it is worth noting that smart home platforms like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home both offer a wider range of compatible devices at the moment.
Products that work with HomeKit include smart plugs, bulbs and lighting systems, video doorbells and security kit, sensors, thermostats, routers, locks and more.
There aren’t many categories without HomeKit-compatible products, although robot vacuums are still not supported.
It is also worth noting that some of the biggest news in the smart home world is “Matter”, a new connection standard that promises to result in less worrying about whether products are compatible with your assistant of choice.
Matter is developed by Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung and others. Anything that works on Matter works across all the platforms involved in the initiative – when more products are available, it will be a way to future-proof your smart home.
