Why I Switched From Alexa to Apple's HomeKit!

[@Y0V0BANGZ]

Quick tip: for NFC tags you don’t necessarily need 2 different tags, one to turn things on and one to turn things off. You can use an if statement: e.g.: when scanned: if lights are on turn them off else turn them on.

[@KeyTone780]

What are these stickers called? Link?

[@jayjake]

@@KeyTone780 NFC stickers 🤯🤯

[@ShaneCreates]

Ok, I'm sold. I'm moving everything over to HomeKit. And yes, more HomeKit videos 🙏🏼 ! 😁 Great video Craig. Glad to hear you discussing things like shortcuts, local control, security, etc. Keep up the great work!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I am glad that I could get you to commit to HomeKit. 🤣🤣 Thank you Shane. Appreciate it from you, the Captain of team HomeKit.

[@robertbolton9154]

😂

[@Ha1frican]

I’ve always been a homekit guy. I’m deep into the ecosystem so when the HomePod mini came out I went full into that. It has its drawbacks but I love it. I bought an Echo for my brother since he uses android and windows and I dug some of the features it had but everything being built in natively to Siri (which is on everything I own from my TV to my watch) is irreplaceable for me

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool you are all in. It just makes more sense like you said with Siri on everything. The Mini and recent updates has made it a better option for many people.

[@randyhale]

Yes more HomeKit! I’m very slowly switching from Amazon to Apple HomeKit!

[@soyuz281]

For me to add more stuff to homekit is the price of devices need to come down to same level as alexa/google home.

[@TeeJayKay14]

Convert to shortcut also opens up numerous possibilities within home automations.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That is a great point. Haven’t taken advantage of that yet. Thanks for sharing.

[@Technology4Seniors]

Hi Craig. Nice video on HomeKit. I'm looking into deploying this with some elderly clients versus my current Alexa solution and ran into a few problems for this Use Case * No auto-accept video calling (Alexa drop in) * No Facetime on Apple TV * No small screen device to be placed near the elder (aka Echo Show). An iPad requires it to be held, kept charged and located when needed * No EASY way for automation to speak through the Homepod Mini on events such as "Fridge door left open", "sitting too long on the couch", Calendar events, etc I'm looking into the tradeoff of adding it as a second home to the kid's account (with a Homepod Mini at moms) versus having the kids create her an Apple account and give an iPad

[@mmaxton]

I’m guessing your specific use case will not be a fit for Apple HomeKit. I am a HomeKit user, and think that for personal use, it is a better solution, but it almost seems that you need an enterprise-level solution. I don’t see Apple changing their security protections that currently prevent the items on your wishlist ( and I would hope that they don’t). I can see the value in what you’re trying to achieve, but I just think that Apple will want to consider the average homeowner needs, rather than a situation where privacy concerns are overridden by the specific needs of your clients’ situations.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Hello Technology4Senior, for what you’re trying to achieve, HomeKit doesn’t sound like a good option at all. I wish it was capable of all that. The tough part is Amazon will do all of that, but not all of it well. Which can lead to a frustration in using it. I think the setting up as a second home is a good option. It can offer value in different way. Hopefully we see a camera & screen HomePod.

[@Gk2003m]

The problem is that Apple was waaaaay late to the game. By the time its home automation concept came to fruition, I was already highly invested in Alexa and Smartthings. Being invested, and having almost all my automations (aside from the hdtv) working as I want them to, there’s just no reason whatsoever to make the substantial investment required to switch over. But it’s on my radar, and I will eventually replace my old AppleTV - and then, if/when components of my smart home start to falter, I will look into a gradual segue to Apple.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I can respect and understand what you are saying. It makes no sense to toss it all. Bringing it in slowly is a good thing. You have the Apple TV and you are ready. You can start playing with Thread devices or see what you can move over. Thanks for watching.

[@AtracBreezy]

Best thing about HomeKit is local fulfillment. Asking Siri to turn on a light or doing it from the HomeKit app is instant. For iPhone users, it’s the best front end dashboard for HomeAssistant imo. HomeKit + HomeAssistant is top tier for those with iPhones.

[@snowatom]

HomeKit for everything. And homeassistant for making everything HomeKit compatible 👌👍

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool Rene. I like you have Home Assistant going. Thanks for watching

[@Bathing.in.Emptiness]

7:24 “It will ignore my wife” 🤣😂🤣😂 …. I wish I had the same ability that HomeKit has!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That's funny. I better not let my wife see that.

[@bagrubmeister4973]

HI Craig, I figured out how to use Siri HomePod mini as your alarm and have her run a automation when you tell her to cancel the alarm. It took me a while to figure it out but I got it. You need to create a shortcut for the automation you want to run and name it whatever your going to tell Siri how to cancel alarm. Example sir cancel the alarm. She will turn to alarm off and then run the shortcut with the same name. You need to make sure you have that turned on in your HomePod settings. Allow personal request. Also for other HomePod voices you need to make sure you have the other user setting set to allow them personal requests. Also I made sure that shortcut was on every device I have and my wife device as well. Now when either of us tell Siri to cancel alarm she will also run the shortcut cancel alarm. Another thing was to make. Sure the other voices that Siri will recognize are in your contacts list as well. This needs to be done for personal requests? I think?? Siri kept tell me that when my wife was trying to run the shortcut that she was not in contacts?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool. I am glad to hear you were able to get it figured out. It is crazy what you can do with shortcuts.

[@michaelmaliga815]

I was looking at HomeKit and the first thing I ran into is that I am not willing to give up my folding phone (which Apple doesn't offer) so any aspect of the ecosystem that can't work with other brands of mobile phone is a non-starter for me. And this got me thinking, why would I ever let my choice of Home Automation products dictate what kind of phone I can buy? And even though I am a heavy user of Amazon Echos I don't use them in a way that locks me out from switching to a different voice assistant at some point let alone let Amazon dictate what kind of phone I buy or what kind of streaming box to use with my TV etc. I know that Apple makes it easy to do products without having to understand how they work but at what point do you question the degree of control a single manufacturer should have over your ability to select the best features from competing companies, especially in products like phones and TVs and computers where you can find valuable options that the ecosystem you are locked into simply does not offer?

[@joker6558]

I used to be that way too, and then I just went all in on apple and I don’t regret it at all. I used to be afraid of the walled garden too, lol. Plus, All of apple’s offerings offer wayyyy better privacy than their android competitors.

[@AdamsTechLife]

Yes!! Welcome to the HomeKit team! 👌🏽

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you Adam. Appreciate it buddy. Thanks for checking out the video 🙏

[@VVARDEYN]

Interestingly enough I made the same transition recently, though I've maintained my entire setup across all 3 platforms just in case. It's been great so far, and Shortcuts is an absolute game-changer - nothing comparable really exists on the other platforms! Only downside I've noticed, and obviously that's nothing to do with Apple per se, but my Yeelights 1S bulbs, which are probably some of the best smart bulbs out there (and that's coming from an almost entirely Philips Hue household), are simply struggling with their Homekit integration with constant 'No response' in the Home app. I've had to use elaborate workarounds through Shortcuts to be able to use them just the way I want through the Apple ecosystem - but hey, it's amazing that I can still do that, because otherwise I'd miss out on some of my favorite smart light bulbs! While at the same time my Meross bulbs just work flawlessly, even though their colors and brightness aren't as amazing, and their smart switches are on a whole new level of blazing fast response and perfect operation.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Always good to hear from someone who has used them all 👏. Shortcuts is awesome. I have done something similar with my lifx and trigger the LIFX scene instead of the HomeKit scene that showed no response. Check out Paul Hibberts video on a new HomeKit hub that covers a lot of no supported devices.

[@josdenhartog7385]

Started with google, since the nest mini was on a discount, but having used (and immediately bought) a set of HomePod mini’s (only available here since three weeks) I am swapping to Apple. A lot of the ecosystem is already there anyway, but for certain the security, flawless integration and your video’s have convinced me 👍🍀

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool to hear HomeKit has worked so well after using Google Nest. Thank you for watching.

[@robertbolton9154]

I completely agree. All of HomeKit’s features make my home super reactive to me. The house works for me rather than the other way around.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That is a great way to put it. My wife doesn’t use Siri because things just happen for her. She doesn’t notice things. Thanks Robert.

[@jeremiahpowell3028]

I’m setting up a new Lutron switch setup with HomeKit (I still have SmartThings but will go away soon) and will get HomePod mini with most echos going away mainly screen versions

[@rickvug]

HomeKit is the obvious way to go if you're in the Apple ecosystem. The biggest gaps I see is the lack of a HomePod with a screen, cheap dedicated Siri devices (similar to Echo Flex) and the fact that Sonos doesn't support Siri. Solve those issues and I think Apple will have a home run on its hands.

[@herminiodiaz1581]

Hello Greg. Kudos on replying to people's questions! My wife and I are helping a 90, beautiful blind lady phone calling needs. Basically verbal commands is a must. Were do we start, equipment, software, apple products etc. Thanks!

[@johnnygoni7402]

Well it’s time to learn shortcuts everybody, the apple “tasker” 😂

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Way beyond tasker on OS integration and ease of use. I have used tasker and it so much more complicated. Most people will run from it. My brother who has used only pixels since the 2 bought an iPad and said tasker couldn’t half the stuff. Really use shortcuts and you might see what I mean and not be laughing at it. Doesn’t compare.

[@johnnygoni7402]

@@CraigsTechTalk I just made my change to android 6 months ago from iOS and what a mistake, I’m at the Apple Store literally watching your video, getting my new iPhone and start following your peers. Bring shortcuts to your channel please. Keep up the good work sir !!!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I have to give you credit for doing 6 months on Android. Now you can enjoy your iPhone and speak intelligently speak about Android. Good luck and hope you enjoy your new iPhone. Definitely check out those other folks.

[@johnnygoni7402]

@@CraigsTechTalk I’ve been subscribed to all of you, I’m a smart home tech myself only that don’t have the time to do KZbin videos. All I need is a bigger house to have more gadgets lol. Need to learn shortcuts tho, that’s something I’m really struggling

[@banderson1979]

Yah I did the same thing this winter, for all the same reasons, but Apple TV integration with cameras is the absolute best.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Congratulations on the move over. Hopefully it had been a good one. The Camera integration is very cool and definitely under utilized in my house. You get these cool features after not having, you forget they are their. Thanks for watching and sharing.

[@sa34w]

Not a huge fan of Echo devices due to privacy concerns, would like to see more HomeKit devices for Video and other home automation

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I can understand that. Thank you. Glad you want to see more.

[@nigelstockley7011]

Interesting as ever. I did this myself about 4 months ago. Replaced a house full of Alexa devices with multiple HomePod Minis. Main reason being the HomePod multi room music setup actually used my very expensive Sonos ARC which I think ive given Amazon and Sonos long enough to integrate with Echo - and they havent. That said the software on the HomePods is really quite ropey still! I have kept Alexas around the house - enough to be heard should I shout out 'Alexa' - and the show 5 is a great bedside clock. Biggest issue is that, like Craig, I have Ring alarm, cameras and a Nest Learning Thermostat. Ring and Nest so far steadfastly refuse to play nice with HomeKit so I have to retain the Alexa network to control these. Im hopeful that Ring and Nest will eventually integrate but if they don't I imagine someday ill have to get rid of them to get a HomeKit compatible solution instead which will be a shame.

[@mmaxton]

As I commented elsewhere on this video, I changed over from Alexa to HomeKit about 8-9 months ago. I also have Ring cameras and Alarm system, and have a Nest thermostat. I was going to just run these separate from HomeKit, and maybe use one Amazon Dot for occasional Alexa commands to change the thermostat setting. However, I hinted to Santa that I would like a HOOBS box (Homebridge system for lazy dummies 😁) for Xmas, and now I can “see” and control all Ring devices and Nest thermostat within the Home app. It also let me add virtual (dummy ) switches and delay timers into my home automations, which has really increased flexibility in programming my automations. HOOBS, combined with the IOS / Mac app “Controller for HomeKit” let me do just about anything I would like in the way of controlling my home. While it would be nice if all vendors played along nicely (c’mon Matter!), I’m just saying that you don’t have to wait for that future day, or change out all your devices. If you prefer Ring, Nest, or many many other popular devices, you can implement them into HomeKit now, plus get additional benefits.

[@nigelstockley7011]

@@mmaxton hoobs is fine if you live in the USA. I don't!

[@TeamGB-Diving]

Is it going to matter who you use when Matter comes along? I find Siri is thick as two short planks to be honest. Siri is a bit more slick, polished compared to Siri. I am a iPhone user and I don’t think it will change but I prefer Alexa.

[@scottr5044]

Slowly transitioning to HomeKit from Alexa. Family is used to Alexa so its a slow move, I find I use my phone to control most things now vs speaking to an Echo. The automations in HomeKit are awesome, use them as much as possible. Great video as always.

[@Slimhaven1]

I have tried them all and the only one that continually works with zero issues is HomeKit. Amazon and Google integration is insane how you have to setup and use. SmartThings was good in beginning but really fell off as the others moved ahead quickly. Aqara, Lutron Caseta, MyQ, Ecobee, Schlage, and August devices I have found to be awesome with HomeKit. And then there is always Hoobs!

[@BigMu2003]

I started with Alexa and she still exists in my house but I am transitioning to HomeKit going forward for all the reasons you listed.

[@mmaxton]

I was all-in with Alexa until about 8-9 months ago. I made the switch, and I don’t regret it one bit. I do still have 2 Alexa Dots (with clock) - one in kitchen, because I want a visible timer countdown while cooking, and one in guest bedroom (again for the visible clock). Funny - I read recently, one reason Alexa is constantly pushing new skills is because 90% of their users just use Alexa to either start a timer or play a song. No system is perfect, but I find that I have much more control & customization with HomeKit & Shortcuts.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

It is crazy how many people like you both are switching over. I think a lot of people have felt Alexa have hit a wall and have kept the things people don’t like. But don’t change what users want.

[@movingloz]

Yep 👍 Apple Fan Boy here. In Australia here and HomeKit Accessories are few and far between. I use Alexa mainly only because HomeKit stuff is so hard to find.

[@joseaavellanet4322]

Your idea on switching from Alexa to HomeKit is good. Unfortunately, after spending my money on Amazon speaker and other gadgets it’s not a good idea for me. I know apple makes greats stuff, not crazy about the last speaker or the first one. Anyway I will stick with the what I have, thanks for the info.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Jose I understand what you are saying and I would not get rid of it all if you are all happy. I think these devices are going to become more a like and will open up so we can move our devices between. That is why I like to cover both so hopefully Apple and Echo folks can learn about what is going on each side.

[@sicctt]

So my entire home is Amazon enable but I have all apple devices except HomePod but with Hoobs it brings all my switches plugs and lights and cameras to HomeKit

[@coreyforbes8227]

As much as I would like to, I switched from Apple Music (after using since 2016) to Spotify and I really really prefer Spotify over Apple Music because of music discovery. I even bought a HomePod mini to use with Apple Music but Spotify works better for me overall. Which means the HomePod is essentially useless to me so I’m sticking with my echo 4th gen

[@james2008957]

I agree. I love the Echo but they have a hard time hearing me sometimes and the app is pretty terrible in my opinion. Not to mention that there are many countries that the echo doesn’t support Apple Music link in. It’s just not a very smart choice for an iPhone user, just an affordable one.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Jay, I think you have said it well. HomePod mini makes sense for the Apple Music support. It’s nice to have real integration.

[@1BSDjunkie]

Using HomeKit in our home. So far the only thing we have automated is our lights. Was unable to get sunrise/sunset working so just manually enter/adjust the times every now and then.

[@garethjones5068]

Really enjoying my HomeKit journey so far, Shortcuts & the native HomeKit functions are allowing me to control the vast majority of my existing smart home infrastructure, I’m looking at the option that Paul mentioned in his video against Hoobs as a potential expansion to HomeKit

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I love that you are enjoying it. I don’t think I have seen an Apple switch as fast as yours. I was worried about a mid-life crisis. I do like the hub Paul mentioned. I want to check that out. Sounds great.

[@garethjones5068]

@@CraigsTechTalk I had some NFC tags delivered yesterday, things are gonna get reeeeeeal nerdy 🤓

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That’s awesome. I love it. Can’t wait to hear how nerdy.

[@crystalstevens5010]

Home app. Just purchased Mano Nanoleaf lightbulbs, but need intermediate base on several bulbs, and can lights that don’t exist yet. Hopefully they will start manufacturing them soon.

[@Waterbottle365]

I have been using HomeKit for a few years, but I also have Echo devices throughout the entire house. I found that many of my HK devices would not respond, even with really great wireless signal. I ended up setting up Home Assistant, linking all HK devices into HA, then sending them back out to HK so I can control them there. This does a few things: The ability to control what devices are shown to HK and Alexa I can control all devices from both platforms Still have the ability to use Shortcuts, which is super powerful. You're exactly right- If you're invested heavily into the Apple ecosystem (We have 2 x iPhone, 2 x iPad, 2 x HomePod mini, 4 x ATV, 2 x Apple Watch, 1 MacBook Pro), then HomeKit is a no brainer for some of that on-device control.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you.🙏 That is great information and is an interesting work around. I like it. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheBradLloyd]

Wow, Thanks for the shout out, Craig! Great video and excellent decision to use HomeKit. Love seeing the blue, orange and yellow HomePod minis in your background...🤩 You’ve shared some very compelling reasons that will hopefully help others who may be on the fence!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you Brad🙏 You are welcome. You have a great presentation style that is calming and very educational. I do like the new colors. The orange one is next to the bed now. I think there are a lot of great reasons to switch. I am surprised, in the comments, how many people are switching. Thanks for checking out the video.

[@iGageit]

HomeKit Insider podcast is an amazing resource for HomeKit tech!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you for sharing and checking out the video.

[@BlaiseBarrette]

Instead of using two separate nfc tags to turn your lights on and off, you can use only one NFC to toggle your lights. (If office light is ON, turn office light OFF else turn office light ON).

[@herminiodiaz1581]

Just open the home kit and felt a need for basic info on how to use it. if this is already done point me to the battle field !

[@blakerudler5266]

I have been using HK for a while now. But I was using echos for music. Recently changed them out for HomePod minis.. so much better, things work smoother now

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool. Glad to hear it is working well Blake. Thanks for watching and sharing.

[@DawidhabdArup_N7]

What is that App or something you mentioned so the Home App can integrate with RING products [Doorbell, Camera & the Security System], please? Brilliant contents and thorough. I love it, as well as enjoy watching your contents. As myself being disabled I rely on many tools and adaptation to ease for me. I believe, *_Our World_* is a *_Shared Experience_* … Look after yourself and each other & Stay Safe… Remember, *_Life_* is *_Short_* so *_Live Long_* and *_Prosper_* … 🖖 Cheers matey!!!

[@BMar1andonly]

Transitioning from Alexa to Homekit (ran a hybrid home, but fully committed with HomePod minis). Ditto on all points, I hope they add a flash-briefing lol. I do find Siri to be more constant than Alexa which is what you want at the end of the day.

[@BMar1andonly]

Now that I’m thinking about it. You’ve switched, I switched, and several others commented the same. Did Apple do it again? Double downing on the HomePod minis and releasing new colors caused a surge in Homekit users? Mmm

[@sakshamdang4756]

It’s been 2 years now, I am still watching your video. As a courtesy pls send your homepod on my address 🤣

[@CraigsTechTalk]

🤣 I really appreciate you watching. I wish I could, I have them all in use. Those full size HomePods are like gold they cost so much. You can't get rid of them. Thanks for watching.

[@sakshamdang4756]

@@CraigsTechTalk Your content is the main souvenir! Homepods cost nothing in comparison. You are sharing knowledge hence u have a treasure with you😜 Come on be Robin hood it’s good to give away little things

[@cmacmenow]

HomeKit is so cool! Apple TV is the future for human / home connection and media content. It’s simple to set up and powerfully executed. Apple have done it again and expect even more integration with Apple TV.

[@London_Native]

As a fellow HomeKit user, who switched from Echoes, I say more HomeKit videos please Craig!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you Spencer. I am surprised how many people have made the change. Thanks for watching

[@CL-sx3pq]

Started with Xiaomi and Google (although I’m an apple user) due to products availability, but the interface wasn’t as versatile and the speech recognition/flexibility isn’t as smart as compared to Siri. Ended up switching over to Homekit (+homebridge on my mac mini m1), so much more stable, intuitive and I haven’t been touching my switches! Ytd’s announcement on Matter made the next few months even more exciting!

[@jasonedwards6562]

I use mainly Alexa but have been slowly putting more effort into HomeKit. Been playing around with HomeBridge for the devices that are not natively supported in HomeKit and that works great. Like you I will have a harder time getting my wife to use the HomePods instead of the Echo devices although she uses Siri on her iPhone constantly so maybe it will be easier than I think. Hoping we see lots of Matter/Thread devices this coming year. That and the rumored HomePod with a screen.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool Jason that you are diving in. Even to the point you are using HomeBridge. It was hard enough to get the wife to use Alexa. I hope to see more thread devices too. I am adding more Nanoleaf to my house.

[@anthonywall1228]

HomeKit all the way. I have a HomePod mini in every room and my garage. Lutron light switches, smart plugs, circle tek doorbell. I almost forgot my smart blinds. HomeKit is king for me and my home.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool Anthony. You do have quite the set up if you have gone to the point of smart blinds. Very cool thanks for sharing and watching.

[@penningtonsm]

I want to move over, but I have too many devices that HomeKit just won’t allow. It’s frustrating because HomeKit allowed stuff just cost so much.

[@davidredmond8562]

I really want to find a way to trigger a personal automation with a smart home device. I’d love to have a Flic button at the front door to start an Apple Watch walk/run workout for example. As far as I know that’s not currently possible

[@JayMartinez]

I have enough speakers to blanket my house with any of the assistants. But Alexa guard keeps me on amazon. Would love a baked in approach to something like this from apple.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

It would be nice to see something similar with the HomePods . That is the advantage of having both devices

[@frankvet1]

Thanks bro...so baked into Amazon Alexa (and Smartthings) for smart home stuff, BUT I'm an apple fanboy (iphone, ipad, mac mini, ipod, blah blah blah), so very interested in seeing if switching for smart home stuff is for me.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

You are welcome. I know what you mean. Making the switch is going to be some sacrifices. Especially with your SmartThings knowledge. But Shortcuts might be an automation toy that helps counter some of the lost smart things features. Good luck. The nice thing is you can run them parallel and experiment.

[@Polkster13]

The Brad Lloyd's channel is great I have been a long time subscriber of his. He also has a Channel's page listing a lot of great HomeKit and Home Automation channels. A great resource to find other Home Automation KZbinrs.

[@Tamarac24]

I tried at some point Alexa but in the end I switched over to HomeKit, as for ring doorbell and nest I installed Homebridge in a Synology and was able to integrate everything and now even my Apple TV show a live feed of my doorbell when some one ring.

[@TheAppleLoadout]

Brilliant content. Well presented and easy to understand. And more HomeKit videos would be much appreciated.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you Gary 🙏. That is very kind of you. Glad to hear you would like to see more. Thanks for watching

[@DennisWarner]

Not sure if my settings are off on KZbin playback (I tried everything) but the image was cropped and couldn’t see the words at the top or bottom. Great video. My wife tends to stick with Alexa too. If Apple gives us a screen all Alexa devices will be gone.

[@misstubbie1313]

My ecosystem is all Apple Homekit so of course Id love to see more videos about it!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool. Thank you. I have some good ones coming up if you like Apple. Some Apple Watch tips, Apple TV and more. Thank you for watching.

[@jaycorbin5361]

What would be your honest recommendation for a Smart Home system that just works. As in light switches/bulbs, Motion/door sensors, TV and voice control etc etc, without having to use something like Homebridge or Smartthings to artificially add compatibility, or have to do constant workarounds with the system not being able to execute certain commands or giving specific language. And most importantly, work as an all in one system, no Alexa for certain functions, Apple for others, etc etc, as that would not be productive day to day, especially as I have major memory issues, so I don’t want to be forced to memorize which commands for which assistant. Apple Homekit or Amazon Alexa? We are switching to iPhones and Macs, so the device integration of Homekit sounds great, I’m just not sure if it’s a real Smart Home system.

[@maxlrubenstein]

For what it’s worth you can add an Alexa widget to your iPhone so you just tap it and speak your command without using the wake word and quickly commanding something on your phone like you enjoyed with the Siri shortcut.

[@mmaxton]

Just curious - can you do this without having to unlock the phone?

[@maxlrubenstein]

@@mmaxton yup! It’s a default iPhone feature on the newer OS. I have a weather widget on the homescreen showing me the daily forecast and an Alexa widget which is a big button that says Ask Alexa. When you press it it opens the Alexa app automatically and instantly activates the button to ask Alexa something so you can instantly say your command.

[@garethjones5068]

Thanks for your kind gift that allowed me to step into the HomeKit world 🙏

[@CraigsTechTalk]

You are so welcome my friend. Thanks for all the support over the years.

[@LimaGolf284th]

We're new to HomeKit, and loving it. Thank you, for all of your very helpful videos.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you Stanley. I hope you enjoy HomeKit. Definitely check out the channels I mentioned for great info.

[@kurtjensen7264]

Love to use Apple HomeKit on my Apple Watch to open my garage door with Siri

[@kabish0603]

I've been looking at switching to homekit, but damn its expensive. I have 5 echo's in the house, to replace those that is over $500 bucks!! I just don't know if I can fork down $100 bucks per HomePod Mini....

[@CraigsTechTalk]

What I would suggest is try one HomePod mini. See if it adds value in your apple world. If you have devices that work, you can use them along with Alexa. Today I sent a text to my wife using Siri and the HomePod mini. I think they both have their benefits and can be used together for their strengths. Beta test an Apple home with one mini.

[@kabish0603]

@@CraigsTechTalk Thanks for the feedback! Think I'll end up doing just that. I'm wanting to go Unifi Protect and a hoobs (think that is what its called) so I can bring their cameras into HomeKit. I recently fell down the Apple hole, I've always been an Android guy, and really am enjoying their ecosystem.

[@sebxiou-lifestyle4465]

Hi Craig. Thanks for this. I've never been in the Apple eco-system, therefore won't be swapping. However, just wanted to point-out that talking into your mobile 'phone to activate smart-home features is easily possible with Alexa too - I do it many times a day. In Android, simply download the Alexa app (one may already have it anyway) and put a link to it in the apps bar at the bottom of the display. Then touch it to activate Alexa on one's 'phone and say some command "Turn on the television" and it should work if the tv is thus set-up. NB One does not even need to say "Alexa" etc as simply pressing the app button gives a direct-line. Cheers.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you for sharing. That is a grasp option for Android. With iPhones you can access Alexa hands free if the phone is unlocked and the app is open in the background. Not as cool. But an option.

[@sebxiou-lifestyle4465]

@@CraigsTechTalk Cheers, Craig.

[@Polkster13]

Looked into everything and decided to go with HomeKit. But all of the stuff I have installed that I am planning on leaving has to work with all platforms, like Lutron Caseta wired switches everywhere. This way someone else can still use the Lutron switches with any of the Home Automation platforms, OR no platform at all. They can use them as just manual switches.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Frederick, I am with you. That is why I went with Lutron. To have that maximum flexibility. Thanks for sharing.

[@patrick4003]

Good video, I just switch for Homekit and for thia reason I need to buy a iPhone. I have Android but not realy good with Homekit. You need just one NFC tag to open and close light. With IF command.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Hello Patrick, thank you. I appreciate it. Very cool you made the switch. Appreciate the one NFC and if recommendations. I need to learn more and go deeper.

[@mindblockandroid]

Al Pacino voice: You broke my heart!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

In that voice, it hurts to hear that. I am sorry 😞

[@demeqs]

Same I switched to HomeKit and gifted my Alexa stuff to my sister

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Hope you are enjoying the switch

[@demeqs]

@@CraigsTechTalk Can you please make a video of HomeKit devices you recommend?

[@bagrubmeister4973]

Hi Craig, I have just paused my switch. I will wait to see what happens in the future, the one simple thing I tried was to turn no my light when I paused the HomePod alarm. Its not available to do for a home automation, It can be done on a device but not the home. I Hope you keep making Alex videos.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Have you tried it as a shortcut. Didn’t get a chance to watch the whole video, but this is one where he is writing a good morning shortcut. Don’t know if this helps with an idea. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4OclHVtgK6rbas I will still be covering Echos and Alexa updates. Feels like Amazon hasn’t done much. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@bagrubmeister4973]

@@CraigsTechTalk Yes I watched the video. From what I get out of it it using the short cut fir that set up is for the device only not the home. you use the clock in the short cut for the device. There is no option to select that using it in a home set up so you would need to set the alarm on your phone or I pad

[@patrickstevensonn2664]

Hey love your channel and tips on tech. Thanks for sharing. Yes, I’m in the process of changing over to HomeKit. 2 questions though. 1. Can I make my eufy 2K wireless doorbell to work with HomeKit? How to do that please? 2. Security. Works locally. Matters and thread. So no WiFi necessary? If no WiFi then how can I remotely control my smart devices away from home? Thanks in advance.

[@mavirek]

THE HOLY GRAIL: TURNING ON THE TV AND APPLETV WITH ONE VOICE COMMAND. Hi Craig and fellow subscribers. Do you know how to turn on a smart-plug (Vocolinc) and AppleTV using just one voice command to an Apple HomePod Mini with either scenes, automations, shortcuts or any combination of them? My TV is turned on and off with a voice command to the smart-plug it is connected to. My AppleTV presumably turns on with a voice command via a shortcut. Try as I may in the Apple ecosystem, I cannot find a way to have the TV and AppleTV turn on with just one voice command, instead of one each. Any ideas? Is the answer a workaround using the setups within the Vocolinc app instead?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Your best bet is shortcuts. Here is a 2 step that would wake the Apple TV and the next step would control a scene or device from the Home app. You can add more smart home control by choosing the home app. As for Apple TV control you would use the remote app for the command I have in the shortcut. www.icloud.com/shortcuts/094a8ea01be24830995daf39b217cce4

[@SmartHomeTheory]

Love this, Craig! Liked and subbed. I currently use both Alexa and HomeKit but I'm looking at just getting rid of Alexa at some point too. I'm actually putting together my own video on HomeKit and I'm wondering if I could use a short clip from your video as b-roll? Either way keep up the good work.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. I appreciate you sticking around. I am good with a clip being used. I like to have the channel credited in the clip. Please let me know which clip you would like to know and in what context for your video. I appreciate you asking.

[@SmartHomeTheory]

Awesome! Thank you so much. Very happy to credit you. It'll be the part where you're setting up automation in the Home app as I'm talking about HomeKit automations. No longer than 10 seconds in total. Thanks again.@@CraigsTechTalk

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you for the info. Sounds good.

[@jaimegpppz3552]

Goodnight after starting to want to have a smart house and buy good and bad devices, I have alexa for everything being easier, but I have siri homekit I think I heard you say you have a hue that helps you control your smart appliances with homekit app home very good videos thank you best wishes

[@alexswarovski7859]

Can you control your homepod mini remotely? When u r not home?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

You can create automations that will do a few things with the HomePod media and volume. Other then that, I don’t think there is much to control on the HomePod. You can control all your smart devices away from your home because the HomePod controls it all in the house.

[@todaysdough]

I wish there was a way to integrate my z-wave switches to Homekit. I have my arlo doorbell cam, Schlage front door lock, and myq garage opener on my Homekit. I love how easy they are to operate. I just can't see spending the money to replace all 35 switches in my home from zwave.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Check out Paul Hibberts video on a new hub for HomeKit that supports Zigbee and I don’t know about Z wave.

[@bagrubmeister4973]

Ok I am sold.. Great videos .. I am already in the process. I do have a question. How do you get Siri to recognize more then one voice with HomePod mini? My wife and I share a iCloud account. did that a long time ago. So I can't send an invite because she does not have an include account. What would be the work around on that

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much.🙏 Welcome to the HomeKit world. There really is no work around. Unfortunately to take advantage of all the features a second iCloud account would be needed. Here is Apples setup process. support.apple.com/en-us/HT204753 If you added your wife to family sharing, all of your content that you have purchased would still be accessible by both. It would require a family music plan though.

[@AServant46]

I’ve not made the switch yet, but really wanting to. I currently use Smartthings with various devices connected (Alexa,Ring, Kasa, Cree/Sengled lights, halo lights, myQ garage door) what is the best way to start the switch from what you’ve experienced?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I highly recommend getting a HomePod mini, even to start using it for the apple app integration. As for switching, you can use smart assistant or homebridge. I believe Reed from smart home solver switched from Smartthings to home assistant. Now he is using Home assistant and HomePods. I would recommend checking out his channel since he is a smart things user. www.youtube.com/@SmartHomeSolver Thanks for watching.

[@myHomeKithome]

Great video Craig! I’ll be in the Homekit camp for the foreseeable future, but there are still quite a few features that Alexa has that I’d like to see come to HomeKit. Namely whisper mode and Guard.

[@BMar1andonly]

Ditto on Guard

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. 🙏. Whisper mode and guard would be great. Thought about whisper mode when Siri was loud last night.

[@mmaxton]

Please, yes, Whisper mode! I’m 60+ years old, but even for me, Siri talks too loud. I ask her to speak softer, and eventually she says “this is as quiet as I can speak”. Guard doesn’t do much for me - I tried it while I was still using Alexa, but just didn’t see any value there. Have you found many situations where Guard improves your home automation experience? Maybe this is something you only notice if you actually have a break-in?

[@Haywoodjablomie100]

It's a bit like SmartThings but not quite as good as an Alexa and SmartThings combo. Plus having to have your phone, and get it out to do things while in the home is a no from me.

[@jaycorbin5361]

I’m torn between Alexa and HomeKit. I have an IPhone and Mac now, so Homekit seem better from an OS perspective, but there are issues. Homekit has probably controlling devices properly. I can’t turn off all the lights in a room because Siri doesn’t understand “And”, and there is no way to get around that (Alexa has updated so now I can label Smart Plugs as lights, allowing me to turn everything off in one command) there is of course the issue of devices not being supported by Homekit in one way or another. We have Sengled light bulbs, and they are only supported though one Sengled hub that isn’t made anymore, etc etc. but Homekit does have finer control. I would be able to change colors and lights, if Homekit understood either (Homekit seems to think every color is purple, so no matter what color I choose, I get purple.) and easier control of each device.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I can understand being torn. My suggestion for HomeKit is to explore more scenes and routines to maybe help work around a couple of your issues. You can say “Hey Siri, lights out” and it will turn off the lights that are in the same room. If you are trying to turn off smart plugs, I would consider a scene like Living room off and Living room on. But for calling up multiple lights, it stinks. I would also consider the additional integration into the Apple Ecosystem. Like sending messages with voice over a HomePod mini. Also the integration with native Apple apps like Reminders, To Do list, calendar and more. Thanks for watching

[@the-bu3lb]

How do you control all of your stuff if home kit isn’t supported with 80% of Amazon and google products

[@willito6969]

if you are a apple user, HomeKit is the best of all

[@alexanderkaplan]

Thanks for the video! Which NFC stickers would you recommend? I bought some, but they are hit and miss...

[@retiredfdnyhm1]

Why doesn’t the automation work that when I arrive home it doesn’t open my garage door?

[@Collective_Oilers]

More HomeKit videos! Inside the walled garden and haven't ventured outside Homekit - and no need to as it does everything I need right now even if it’s just a few bulbs and light strips. What are good Homekit cameras?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. The walled garden is blooming 💐Eufy makes some great indoor and outdoor cameras that support HomeKit Secure video that records clips to iCloud.

[@EspeoniaManga]

I never could get my HomePod to work properly, not even as a regular speaker let alone a smart speaker 😔

[@DanielGuzman83]

I haven’t watched the video yet but I’m on both ecosystems. There are a few automations that I have trouble with on HomeKit. My car has Alexa so sometimes it’s convenient to open the garage without pressing buttons. I also like to view cameras on the Echo Shows. I have all eufy cameras. Still need the HomeKit ecosystem so I can use my Apple Watch.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I love it DG. That sounds like my kind of breakdown. The is room for both like you have it. I don’t think it’s not all or nothing with these assistants. Thanks for sharing and watching.

[@jaredzhao2532]

Use home assistant！You can even control echo through HomeKit

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Great option. Thanks for sharing.

[@toddbush3987]

With the Starling Hub, got Google covered and therefore HomeKit will run everything I need.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That is a great option for people to know about. Thanks for sharing.

[@BreakTime10101]

Craig, did they change something so that it doesn’t handoff automatically anymore to the HomePod Mini? I noticed now I get a message on the phone having to confirm the switch. I don’t like that, you shouldn’t have to acknowledge the switch if you already know that you want to make the switch back and forth. Thanks EDIT: looks like for music is switches automatically, but for phone calls is asks you to confirm the switch before doing so. I don’t like that. It should switch instantly regardless what you are listening to.

[@lancecaddy574]

Hi do I need the apple4k or can I just use my iPad which one will be better .

[@aljotock]

Probably a real stupid question but….. please, can some one tell me how to have my Home on my other apple devices (iPad pro, iphone etc.) All devices are running the latest OS. I’m using my Dads old iPad as what I thought was a hub but away from our home its not allowing access. Please, point me to a video which’s help set this up 🙏

[@chrismigl]

Hi Craig. I’m leaning to make the switch to home kit but have Ring alarm, cameras, doorbell, myQ garage opener. With Matter slated to be released later this year, do you know if these devices will be able to connect through my Apple Home app or will I still need to get a HOOBS to integrate these devices?

[@devinjohnson44]

Will the NFC tags work when you put your Apple Watch next to it also?

[@jcababe76]

Can't use Ring cameras without Hobbs. Still a no-go for me

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I can understand that. I am curious if they will ever open up Ring cameras to Apple.

[@akayy12]

What is the most popular security system/cameras used for HomeKit Integration? Appreciate the feedback

[@gabrielwilliams5315]

Craig what NFC tags do you use? I've searched them on Amazon and there are way too many listed!!

[@sg1ds919]

Craig , is there any way to turn off / on my devices individually? I don't want Siri to turn on AT4K when I wanna play a game on the PS5 or Xbox.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I do not know of anyway. When it comes to power, it is using CEC which is limited, not IR. So its an all or nothing type thing.

[@BreakTime10101]

Craig, another great video. Question, are the HomePods good for phone calls? I would like to get one for my elderly mother so she can hear phone calls better. Is it easy to transfer phone calls onto the speaker? What do you think? Also, I’d like to see a video on Hoobs. Thanks

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. I think they are great for phone calls. Clear and loud. As for transferring calls, it’s a matter of bringing the phone next to the HomePod mini. You can answer by saying “Hey Siri, answer the phone”