HomeKit is Apple’s home automation system that allows users to have an electronic control of all the smart devices in their home via their iPhone/iPad. Users can control all the household features and appliances like heating, lighting, and security from their iPhones and iPad. Thanks to HomeKit and iOS app developers, you would not need to use individual mobile apps to control every single smart device in your home.
The company introduced its brilliant home world with the launch of its HomeKit Platform in 2014 but it was not widely used then. The name is a combination of ‘home’ for home automation and ‘kit’ for software developer kit. Home Kit can be operated locally and remotely when you are away, through mobile apps and through Siri – Apple’s virtual personal assistant. HomeKit technically debuted by iOS developers with iOS 8 and now with some upgraded transforms; the element is again available on Apple’s major devices with iOS 10. The current trend in mobile application development revolves around a rapidly growing market being built around smart home products. The HomeKit was a big launch by the mobile app development company in 2016.
With HomeKit, smart devices have a standardized way to configure, communicate and control ‘Internet of Things’, including connected home gadgets, lights, security systems and more. You can even group actions together and trigger them using Siri. HomeKit is a software framework that enables iOS app developers to integrate internet-connected home devices with iOS apps. In order to use its APIs, iOS app developers have to sign up for Apple’s Made for iPhone (MFi) program. The framework is now available to iOS app developers and one requires a developer’s account to develop it. HomeKit developed for iOS, stores its objects in a database which resides on user’s iOS device, which is in sync with other devices over iCloud.
The ‘Home’ mobile app (gives HomeKit its UI) brings to the smart home a clean and easy-to-understand interface and hence works standalone. But previously one had to use third-party apps to configure and control the HomeKit compatible products. The ‘Home’ mobile app brings them under one roof – the Apple controlled roof. So from now on, individuals moving to anyplace can control their home gadgets through the HomeKit. The awesome Home app has been developed for iOS which is a big step towards enhanced user experience.
HomeKit wants to make it easier for smart accessories to communicate and for users to connect and manage all the smart accessories in their home from multiple manufacturers – such as Philips Hue lights and other thermostats, blinds, locks, and sensors. With the HomeKit iOS Mobile application development service, Apple endeavors to make consumer’s life easier, safer and more organized. With this new platform, Apple has taken mobile application development to new heights, creating a seamless experience for users.
Accessories that work with the HomeKit are secure, easy to use and work with any of the Apple devices including iPhone and Apple TV. Mobile users can use the new Home App from iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watches to control all HomeKit enabled accessories. The mobile app development company announced a partnership with numerous household manufacturers which including Philips, Withings, iHome, Honeywell, and Kwikset which provide new opportunities for iOS app developers.
Controlling smart home devices with your smartphone is a new concept and Companies are lending much more focus to home automation. HomeKit enabled Wi-Fi thermostat, HomeKit connected indoor climate monitor, HomeKit enabled Smart lock are few of the ways to make your home more intelligent. These lights are triggered based on motion sensor movement and turn off automatically after a set duration. Other intelligent features include a setting to enable lighting when the room is dark, conserving energy usage. Apple’s Siri controlled home automation platform together with third-party apps really makes the home automation come to life. Hesperus is a similar HomeKit platform available in the market which features an approachable design and customization option.
You must be wondering that smart lights can be controlled with their own mobile app, then why is the HomeKit necessary now? Without HomeKit, your smart lights cannot communicate with your smart blinds, meaning you cannot hook them up together, control them with a single interface nor set them to perform actions together. The HomeKit is the ultimate device for your home, developed by iOS app developers. The most important drawbacks of the previous platform were that any individual who purchased a HomeKit item had to host a third party application to utilize it. Finally, Apple has chosen to coordinate everything on connected home, means no third party required any longer.
HomeKit does not have a lot of rivals for now, because although Samsung Smart Home also offers a home automation platform, it has just debuted earlier this year. The main competitor of the mobile app development company will have to keep an eye on Google, which acquired Nest Labs – indicate that Google is also interested in entering this market. Through the HomeKit, iOS app developers have tackled a big complex problem and have tried to make it small and simple enough to fit into your iOS device and your daily life. When HomeKit comes closer to fulfilling its potential, we will find ourselves at the beginning of something truly remarkable for our iPhones and iPad.
Keyideas Infotech (P) Limited
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