7 Reasons You NEED Apple HomeKit! Sorry Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant

[@CraigsTechTalk]

🔴 CHECK OUT 🍿 Apple HomePod Handoff kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoGop2iQfLWJrZI 🍿 Top 10 Everyday Apple Watch Uses! Why You Need One - kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGmag5udfKyGn7s 🍿 Top 10 Everyday HomePod Uses! Why You Need One - kzbin.info/www/bejne/paXcZq2uqJWopcU

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

Did you say the Apple TV also works as a home kit hub Craig ? I’ve got two of those and I wouldn’t even need to buy a home pod .

[@sgodsellify]

11:42 When you mention Thread. Who do you think made Thread? Google was a founding member, and pushes Thread, and Thread is in all of Googles smart displays, and in their Nest products. Apple only joined up at the end of 2018. Also NFC tags work great on Android, and even other devices that are not from Apple. As far as Shortcuts are concerned, Apple had to make something to give its users, especially since SiriKit is terrible, and if you ask me Siri Shortcuts is a kludge, because SiriKit sucks so bad. You know Apples SiriKit sucks, when you have to code differently for an Apple Watch, vs iPhone, vs a Mac. That is why Apple came out with Siri Shortcuts, because SiriKit is horrendous to develop and code with.

[@sattam31]

Is hoobs homekit bridge good?

[@ashsworld4414]

Just got my first HomePod and I love HomeKit so much more than my setup with my echo.

[@frankthecat]

I recently completed switching from Amazon Alexa devices throughout my house to all HomeKit. I appreciate Apple’s attention to my security and privacy.

[@skulling4893]

Not scripted at all

[@ivancalderon852]

You should ask Hong Kong residents about that security and privacy.

[@CristiOv]

🤡

[@Fr4nkSanchez]

what I like about homekit is that you dont need to worry if paying for a subscription, it is embedded to the apple ecosystem. With alexa you are going to multiple apps to integrate everything to alexa app that I personally never use. With home kit you have a fast and easy app without worrying about other stuffs that are not necessary

[@jesselopez5951]

One thing Apple does very well is their Ecosystem. Once I purchased my first Apple TV and saw how my iPad and iPhone could communicate.. I was sold! That was the beginning of my HomeKit Experience. #ShareTheLove

[@brentmcknight5344]

I’m using the Google assistant atm. But thinking about switching to Alexa. Using a single ‘wake’ word I think would be a simple quality of life improvement, plus the Zigbee integration would be a nice to have feature.

[@joejoe6949]

In the long run the U1 chip is going to be the game changer.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

It really is. I don’t think people realize the potential. When people start to see it in action or will be a different game.

[@tylorgoodine2159]

@@CraigsTechTalk I watch your videos all the time! I want to install home bridge but I kind of need help it keeps going wrong!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Hello Tyler, thank you very much. I have not installed home bridge yet myself. I would check out some of the more HomeKit focused channels that have been working exclusively with HomeKit and using HomeBridge. I just bought Hoobs and certain things are easy and others I have not got working.

[@tylorgoodine2159]

@@CraigsTechTalk thanks I will do that!

[@mohammedb4ig]

It’s so sad they didn’t include it with my X or XS. They should’ve introduced it earlier imo!

[@WTSPC]

Banging my head here - 2 iPhones 1 iPad and couple of Macs - yes I understand Homekit idea BUT I want to use some Ring products and on a budget for the rest. I haven't started yet just want to get over the first seemingly BIG hurdle!

[@brentmcknight5344]

Really great video. I’m just getting involved in the smart home space. Trying to sift through the crap is a mammoth task. Great informative videos like this makes the task a lot more enjoyable. We’re an Apple family at home but I prefer Spotify over Apple Music. As some will know, this simple preference complicates the integration of music into the system.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much Brent that’s very nice of you to say. I know it could be hard getting through to find the information you actually want to find on KZbin. I understand the music situation. Before Apple Music was available on the echoes it was frustrating that I had to use a different music service instead. they need to have more 3rd party music support.

[@HeyTechi]

Completely agree! Siri Shortcuts is a hugely underappreciated resource in the smart home world and Apple adopting Thread as standard in the HomePod Mini (and hopefully a refreshed HomePod and next-gen AppleTV) really sets HomeKit apart. Great video as always!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. I appreciate you saying that. I think you’re right with a thread helps set them apart. I think it’ll be underappreciated until people start to see it in use.

[@georgebrodie9795]

Hey Greg injoyed your video on the Apple home app but was wondering I heard this does support ring security but I don’t understand how you load this item on the app and also do you have to scan each item of the devices. Any help I would appreciate thanks

[@BigMu2003]

A year ago when I started my smart home journey I had planned to use HomeKit. I setup my hue hub and it absolutely refused to connect to HomeKit. So I setup Alexa and has control of my lights within 5 minutes. About two months later, after having bought some echos and ring cameras, I decided to try to add it again for fun and options. It connected with no problems. If it had just connected in the first couple of days I might have cared more about HomeKit. Now I try and buy products that work with all three when possible in case I switch someday.

[@rogerboone7852]

Watched video, loved it. Switched to HK and won’t look back. just for those who might have a synology nas in their home - homebridge runs in there like a boss. i’ve got all my alexa compatible switches, nest, ring cameras, doorbell, rachio irrigation, and my door lock. all on my home screen with automation and routines setup.

[@penningtonsm]

Man I would really like to convert to HomeKit, but there are just too many devices I love that won’t work on home kit. Like Wyze products. Great video as usual though.

[@joncruz]

Then get homebreach that’s it

[@vincelombardi2669]

@@joncruz can you send me there website thanks

[@ravedog]

Also on HomeKit Secure Video... it’s limited to 5 cameras total for the recording part.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you for mentioning this. I thought I said 5, but I talk so much I probably didn’t say it. Thanks for the clarification.

[@diegomendez5512]

If you have a house that needs more than 5 cameras it’s probably a mansion and in that case better invest in armed human guards 😂 😝

[@Anilu777]

I just got two HomePod Minis and love my new automations! They start playing music when I arrive home and stop when I leave. I also have them set to turn on music when I wake up for work. Looking forward to doing more HomeKit stuff

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool. Congratulations on the HomePod minis. That is great that you are putting them to work for you. I hope you enjoy your HomeKit journey. There is some great stuff. Thanks for sharing and watching.

[@alexbia5689]

Just got Philips lights in my bedroom and bathroom got ecobee thermostats both floors and front door smart lock all with home kit also got me 2 homepod minis in my night tables love telling siri to play rain or waves at night to sleep got to say its addictive wanna make the entire home smart lol 🤷‍♂️👌💡✨

[@ahale1987]

Craig, Great video and HOOBS/Homebridge are great for "expanding" HomeKit (I've got my Roborock vacuum, Logitech Harmony Hub, and Ring Alarm in Homekit with HOOBS), but it's not universal. The claim that HOOBS/Homebridge allows you to use your non-HomeKit devices in HomeKit only applies if there is an available plugin and then it's how well the plugin works. For my Ring and Harmony kit, it was super simple. For the Roborock vacuum, the plugin is great, but HomeKit, even in 2021 (maybe WWDC will change this) doesn't support vacuums as a device type. With my HOOBS setup, my vacuum shows up as a fan and a presence sensor. I've seen other folks report other robot vacuums in HomeKit as a variety of on/off switches. It gets the job done, but it's certainly not plug n play. YMMV on which devices/plugins you use. I especially like your point about the U1 chip and how that could be a game changer. I'm disappointed that the U1 chip isn't in the new ATV4k.

[@BroManDudeGuyPhD]

Native iOS control IS very nice. I have homeassistant and setup every smart plug and LED strip I have (WLED too) in Homekit. Super accessible to wife who doesnt want to mess with multiple apps.

[@DennisWarner]

I’ve always wanted more from HomeKit and we now have a lot more. Everything in my home is Alexa and HomeKit compatible except for the Alexa smart oven. I plan to replace my Alexa devices with HomePods (I’ll keep an echo in the kitchen for the oven)

[@othercharr]

With 8 Alexa type devices in my house I have to be more selective as to how I replace. But replace is what I'm doing. Got my first HomePod Mini this past weekend.

[@DennisWarner]

@@othercharr I have 2 HomePod minis and 3alexa devices. My wife still calls on the Echos to do things and I’m transitioning to “Hey Siri”. Siri seems to be more responsive but no follow up really stinks.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool Dennis that you are making the switch. You just need to keep wanna go around like you’re saying for that oven. I know for me I will be a multi assist in household. But everything I buy now I buy for home care. Thank you for watching. Both you and Jeffrey, I hope have a good switch over to HomeKit.

[@DennisWarner]

@@CraigsTechTalk thanks. No issues yet. You do great work Craig!! We should be thanking you.

[@alexlilano1931]

I love the homekit and automation, but it needs more devices to work on it. I got my locks and lights done, but not my vacuum, garage opener, and curtain.

[@joncruz]

Just get homebreach for $99 and all will work with HK

[@WickedGamez]

First time viewer! Thanks for your review, I impulse bought a HomePod mini, and the 2021 Apple TV 4K lol.

[@Bigglare]

You don't need Homekit to have a centralized third party app and interface. You can also use the Alexa or Google Assistant apps to control and access your devices without the need to use their manufacturers apps.

[@legenddairy8346]

Even an amateur hacker can hack your home with other platforms. Apple home isn't bullet proof, but the communication is end to end encrypted. But ofc apple isn't the only way. Just go through your smart devices and make sure everything is safe.

[@ShaneCreates]

🙌🏻 HomeKit! 😃 👏🏻 Great video Craig! Glad to hear you discussing the U1 chip and some of the future possibilities there. I think Apple is playing the long game when it comes to smart home and I’m excited to see where it goes.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much Shane. I appreciate you checking out the video. I think when the U1 chip is unleashed, it will be a whole new game. I am excited to see where it is going too. It’s going to get fun. Thanks for the support Shane. Have a great weekend.

[@roryhamilton9426]

Can you add different brands of camera, I’ve got arlo ultra and hub, but want some cheaper wireless cameras to add to my set up

[@valerachetti]

I been using google for long time now, but it doesn't recognize faces properly anymore, speakers don't sync, its bad I been looking to switch and I feel that this is the best option as an iPhone user, thanks for the video!

[@uniqueflh2941]

Good stuff. I’m all-in with HomeKit for my Smart Home. Quite happy with my set-up.

[@SusanFilms]

Thanks for the great video. Incredibly helpful as always. I can’t seem to find the stickers that you have on your desk. I’d be ever so grateful if you could let me know where they are from. Keep up the great work! I am in the UK so I’m not able to import from the US. Products have to be available in the UK. Thank you so much!❤

[@Tailsnpaws]

Thanks Craig. Great video content. Accurate account of why we are switching over to Apple from Google. Number one reason is privacy, but a lot has to do with a better ecosystem as you described. Nice work!

[@chrismoore6070]

I am currently in the process of changing to apple homekit i currently have a philips hue zigbee ip bridge and it currently supports zigbee

[@joyanneparadero3580]

do you need smart tv just to connect alexa? or even light bulbs please explain i wanna put in my mother in law so that easy for them to close even with out switch out

[@tomshyrus7965]

Just wondering how homekit accessories works and controlled from outside network. Understood that if we use third party apps to control devices from outside, it uses its own cloud server to send the command to network hub and hub will send the command to that device. But how it works in homekit? Is it using our icloud or is it using apple cloud for IoT or by any other means?

[@hvgades15]

Meross bulbs and light strips are pretty damn good. Great buy

[@davetester100]

My favourite assistant for getting things done around the home is Jenkins my butler, who brings me afternoon tea as well as the occasional gin and tonic.

[@_Lazare]

Hi Question for you , is it possible transfer hand off or any other means for a FaceTime video call or google duo or any video call over to a tv or monitor ? Having even more hands free and even voice activated

[@kennekam]

Have you been able to integrate a Eufy doorbell to Homekit?. I want it to pop up on my device and allow me to see and speak to the person when the bell is pressed.

[@rodrigoruiz976]

Could you recommend a rotary smart dimmer for smart lights that work with HomeKit? And which wound you say is the best smart bulb? (I liked Nanoleaf’s, but their colors are way too dim)

[@ktkyletaylor8212]

I started with Smart home anything and now striving for a full HomeKit Smart Home. Love the video! #SharetheLove

[@nikolaypetkov4510]

I’m apple user,but using google home only for the assistant features. Siri needs some improvement.

[@Visualization1]

Nice to know there are quite a few new HomeKit device announcements at CES last week.

[@adobephile]

As a happy Apple custoner, I've been aware of Homekit for years now, but never realized until recently that I'd actually like to use it. My wife has some mobility challenges, and it takes her a while to get to the door when someone rings the doorbell. Though our Ring video doorbell helped her in knowing who was at the door, it still took her a good while to get to the door to unlock it. So, we recently purchased the Encode electronic deadbolt lock from Schlage, our favorite lockset brand. The first one we bought didn't support Homekit, so I returned it to Home Depot to get the Encode Plus, which DOES support Homekit. Then I learned that I could make a HomeKit hub on my Apple TV. So I paired my lock to HomeKit, and she can now can lock and unlock the deadbolt from her computer. And I can do the same from my Apple Watch. With the watch, I can unlock the door simply by holding it against the lock's numberpad. Sweet! We also replaced our Nest thermostat (we hate Google!) a couple years ago with an Ecobee3 Lite, which I discovered has supported Homekit all along. I added it to Homekit by simply holding my iPhone near the thermostat, which lit up a QR code on the thermostat's displaya, which my phone read and paired it automatically with Homekit. And the Homekit app on my watch lets me now control the thermostat with it. Next step for us is to get an HK-compatible video doorbell to replace the Ring (Amazon-eeeuww!) one-probably Logitech or Belkin! I'm 73, and I've been around computers and made my living with them for over 50 years. Apple made me a zealot of the Apple brand, and now they can pry my Apple stuff out of my cold dead hands, eternal gratitude to Steve Jobs and Tim Cook and company.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Daniel, thank you very much for sharing this. I am glad that it has helped your wife out. That is great that the HomeKit journey has been so good for you. It is awesome how it all works across all your devices. I am with you, you have to pry this stuff from my hands. The encode plus is such a great lock. Glad to hear you are enjoying it. I did the video on the Aqara G4 doorbell. I love the Aqara lineup. I am hoping we see some new Matter doorbells this year. It might be something to wait on. If Amazon is playing nicely, they should release a Matter Ring doorbell that Apple users could use. That is if they play nicely. Thanks for watching and for your comment. Good luck with HomeKit.

[@imbonnie]

Rachio 3 smart sprinkler controller works with homekit.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I will have to check it out. Thank you for the suggestion.

[@Onewiththestud]

I am hoping to get a HomePod mini soon for my room (I only have a smart light in my house so far)

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That is great. I hope you are able to get one and like it.

[@vortox7292]

Does somebody know, when the Logitech Doorbell will come out for Germany?

[@ScarfyTheGamer0]

Brilliant overview !

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you 🙏 that is very kind of you to say. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@Gk2003m]

My smart home evolved from a smart lock. It has become a place of complex automations. I don’t know much about HomeKit. Does it have a programmable rules-based automation engine?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That is very cool. Glad to hear it had grown into some bigger for you. Apple shortcuts is a rule based automation, that can control apps on, your phone, your smart home and so much more. The Home+ app lets you write conditional automations in shortcut. I was watching some videos from @TheBradLloyd kzbin.info He gets into some cool conditional stuff.

[@handy7390]

I had my Samsung v3 hub go south. I looked around and decided on the Hubitat. I have had it for just 4 days and I am not a real fan on the interface and the clunkiness of the need to find code to make certain things work. Coming from the Samsung (2-3 years worth) and using Google Voice and Alexa, can the way I have been using my devices work with Apple? Meaning, can I use "Hey Google" and still turn on my TV (using Harmony Remote Hub) or use any of my Z-Wave devices using "Hey Google" or Apple? Basically, can I install HomeKit and pick up where I left off or do I need to relearn using Hey Siri only? I use wifi and Z-Way devices.

[@mohamedmatar5878]

you are a lifesaver, i am just wondering between echo & google, and forget i am using apple everywhere.

[@rolandoespinoza5438]

What case do you have on your iPhone in this video? Love the informative details in this video 👍🏼

[@benle4]

Class video explaining the benefits. If anyone wants to know why run HomeKit over Google or Alexa I’ll be sure to send them to this video. 👌🏽

[@kyawzhein27]

I like your studio setup. Where do you get those two desk lamps from?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. The Lamps are these amzn.to/3SEoAIb. This is an affiliate link.

[@cdrron]

Hey Craig, Hubitat connected to HOOBS is the way to go. It's not real easy to set up, but once done, it is easy to use and connects my entire house to HomeKit.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool. That’s good to know. With what little knowledge I have, I can picture what you are saying and can also picture it being tricky. Thanks for sharing and watching.

[@BMar1andonly]

I wish Apple Watch could use NFC Tags why limit it?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

That's a good point. It would be nice.

[@BMar1andonly]

@@CraigsTechTalk Like Disney World’s mobile ticket you wouldn’t need to double click the button. The watch knows it’s with you so you could just set it up to trigger from the NFC Tag simply by raising the Watch to the tag. Just like entering Disney World. Ultimately making the watch more convenient than the phone.

[@tiffanyd.flowersfuturefocu369]

Does it have tasks reminders

[@josephvolpe688]

How do I switch from a echo house to home kit if some of my devices lights switches aren’t home kit compatible

[@MiaSoreryOF]

WAIT PLEASE HELP. How do you have so many accessories to control VIA APPLE TV? I have dozens of accessories on my HomeKit but when i go to that menu on my Apple TV it only shows my camera and one scene and not all of my other accessories PLEASE HELP

[@jamesklark6562]

Ok, this isn't really related but I don't really know where else to ask. I'm in the market for a Smart Watch, but I'm not sure if I should go with a Samsung one given I already have Samsung Health stuff set up on my Galaxy, or if I should go with a FItbit that includes Alexa to work with my home's current ecosystem. Otherwise is there any way to make multiple assistants work with one-another so I don't really have to worry about my choice?

[@Bigglare]

Isn't Thread in google hubs and Amazon Eero?

[@ppriyesh30]

Thanks for the info..its great..first of all I watched 5-6 ads on this video without skipping..Today on some amazon sale, I fell for amazon Echo..As an apple user I immediately knew what the Alexa app is of. Apple app transitions are different.looking forward to buy some hubs for my home.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. My apologies for so many ads popping up for you. Glad to hear you are enjoying your echos. Welcome to the smart home world.

[@ppriyesh30]

@@CraigsTechTalk thanks for the reply!! Sir your content is extremely helpful in enhancing my smart home gadgets..

[@roberto.gallegos]

What if you have possible hubs in all rooms? Do I set them all as hubs?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

No you do not. Only one becomes the active hub and do not get to pick which one. Somehow HomeKit picks one and will switch to another if needed.

[@tonyk8163]

Got 5 HomePods gonna get one more this setup gonna be legendary

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool Tony. I have 3 myself. I hope you enjoy your legendary setup. Thanks for watching.

[@salconw]

Great review. Thank you very much. The shortcuts scripting is really versatile, easy to see how much room there is for that to grow! I learnt a lot about the homekit ecosystem from your video. Thanks again for making it.

[@movingloz]

110% dedicated Apple here but also have a few Amazon products. Australia here and I just wished we’d have more available for HomeKit. There’s really not much of a choice at all. Alexa stuff is much more plentiful.

[@1971bdott]

That’s great stuff just got my second homepod

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you. Very cool you picked up another HomePod. Watch out, they will be in every room soon. Can’t stop at 2. 😀👍

[@roystewart1727]

Very interesting I have never been an Apple fan but that goes back to the original cpu chip which was difficult to program at the chip level (we did have to do that in the beginning). Many of the homekit features should be everywhere, which would make things easier, I have built my system on alexa an hue basically but this gives me reason to do some research into this system for future expansions.

[@crystalc4218]

Great video, but for someone who’s new to all this home stuff, it’s a bit overwhelming. All I could think of is I wonder if there’s a company you can hire to come to your house, advise you on what items you could use, buy what you want, and then they help set up, explain how everything works, and shows you how to use it all.

[@nonapplicable9590]

Yeah that’s a traditional security system .. but also when there are software updates you’re going to have to learn for yourself , but Best Buy or lowes will do that for you with smart home things.. but also having someone do that is having someone know how your house is setup so it’s truly up to you

[@2497josh]

Best Buy does all of that for u

[@ravedog]

At the beginning you mention that HomeKit hubs are needed for outside access. True. Any HK automation you create on your phone, actually runs on the HomeKit hub, not the phone... so automations need that hub as well. Also, in your phone screen insert shots... a lot of “no response” items... the dreaded no response... in red...

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you for the additional information. That is good to know about shortcuts. Yeah, the dreaded no response. Luckily most of those were devices that I had to pull out of my garage because we are getting work done. But definitely annoying to see. Especially if you just used the device and now it says no response. Thanks for the info and for watching.

[@paulmaine]

Brilliant video, well done, I use Apple TV for my hub, kinda wish I’d kept my homepods now 😬, I’ve just ordered some nfc stickers to play with, can’t wait for airtags 👍😁

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Paul, thank you very much. I appreciate you saying that. That is great that you have the Apple TV to use as the hub. You get to try out all the cool features and when your ready or when airtags come out, you buy a mini. Let us know what you think of the NFC stickers. They open up some cool stuff.

[@theelaffingman8776]

I'm looking into adding to my homekit soon. The Apple ecosystem is really the way to go.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I love the apple ecosystem. I also like with Apple is doing with HomeKit. I think it is going to really takeoff this year.

[@mhodges3219]

What is the name of the camera you use here? Thanks

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I am using a Sony A6400. My gear is in the description of my videos, towards the bottom. Same Sony and mic for 2 plus years.

[@cartermw]

I’m new to your channel. I found this video solely because of “HomeKit”. I’m definitely going to learn from your past and future videos. Keep it up. #ShareTheLove

[@MediSpring]

Would like to create a shortcut that looks my iPhone screen. Any idea?!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I only see how to lock orientation and to lock the Apple Watch screen. But not for the iPad screen. Hopefully someone else has a better answer.

[@MediSpring]

@@CraigsTechTalk 😔

[@sheldonangel4466]

Thank you for making this video and bringing more insight to HomeKit. Slowly switching from Alex to HomeKit

[@ShawnMenchaca]

You're downgrading

[@tbc_2024]

This video is very helpful as is your Craig's tech link to your devices on Amazon! Thanks.

[@opiatesmile]

I was looking into a homebridge as I have a bunch of cameras already setup that aren't compatible with homekit. Are there any security or privacy concerns with homebridge?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I’m sorry, I do not know enough about homebridge to be able to say. I have not heard any issues. But I also have not looked into it. The fact I finally bought a Hoobs hub was as far as I have gone. Wish I could give you a better answer. Thanks for watching.

[@ModernDayTech]

All the way baby!! UWB will be a game-changer in the smart home.

[@ModernDayTech]

Look I finally got my badge. It's the wrong badge but it's all good. lol

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Love the enthusiasm. I think you are right about that. Glad you got your badge now. You have been bumped back to greenhorn. Thanks for support Eric. I am going to have to make a HomeKit emoji, an Alexa Emoji and Google people can glad there team.

[@AlexCrews]

I switched from Amazon Alexa to google nest hub max and the HomePod mini

[@KenAdams426]

When does the feature for announcements to specific devices going to take effect on the echos? And i cant wait till they allow us to trade in the 2nd gen of dots. Cuz the new ones with the clock are awesome!!!!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I don’t know what has gone on with it Ken. I had read about it, thought I had it working and then could not get it working. I went looking for where I first read about it, couldn’t find the original source and have removed that section from the video. Sorry I don’t have a better answer. The new echo dots with clocks are cool. You should be able to trade in any echo. Thanks Ken.

[@KenAdams426]

@@CraigsTechTalk I was all excited too for that. I hope it comes out soon.

[@KylersStudio]

Great video. Glad to see you on Homekit!

[@shoardy]

Hi Craig. Like you I’m all in on Alexa as a digital assistant (I have 6) but I would love to switch to Apple/HomePod because for phones, tablets, computers, tv boxes, I’m all in on Apple. So why did I choose Alexa? The wake word of course. Saying ‘Hey’ before an assistant’s name is lame and unnatural. Simply saying Alexa is far more natural and everyday. So I choose natural over security and privacy. Simple. Except I want security and privacy. It’s an ongoing dilemma/frustration and I hate that.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Rob it sounds like the only real solution is to have a multi assist in household. Now that is a tough one. At one thing you could look at from a security and privacy standpoint is the Amazon euro routers. They are HomeKit certified. I do think it’s great to have an Apple TV or a HomePod so you can use compatible devices and create shortcuts along with using your echo. They are great benefits to both. I just hot between the two. But I feel your pain.

[@shoardy]

@@CraigsTechTalk I hadn’t heard about the euro routers, I’ll look into that. Would ExpressVPN do the same thing - protect me from Amazon’s spying eyes?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I don’t know how much a VPN helps within your own house in network of devices. If anything I would check into the privacy settings in the Alexa app. But other than that I don’t know of a way to block and still get the functionality of these devices. It’s more about taking a vantage of their privacy and data options.

[@juppytaar]

why are you censored when you say the first name of the amazon smarthome system? 😮 at first i thought it was a sounderror but i noticed it in a few videos from you now.. 🤨

[@SuperToughnut]

We went with Alexa because we got an echo and Ring doorbell for Christmas. Then we got feit lightbulbs. And we connected our samsung tv (2020) to alexa through SmartThings as well. I really wish samsung opened up more functionality for my 2020 samsung tv. I want to be able to tell my echo dot to open KZbin TV and go to a specific channel on KZbin TV. Right now I can't even open the app. I can if I use the remote microphone (that came with the tv), but I'm not sure if alexa echo dot can do it. I heard it might be possible with a new SmartThings update but I couldn't get it to work. I sure would like to see the industry doing more standardization and creating open APIs that anyone can work with. I'm a software engineer. I would like to be able to create the functionality to do what I want to do with my tv and make it available to others (for free), but I think samsung needs to provide more functionality on their end. But if the smart appliance industry standardized maybe we could get there faster, as long as companies work together on the standards. If anyone knows how I can open apps on my tv and control those apps I would be very interested. I've been a software developer for over 20 years and I have worked with many languages and platforms, but I'm new to the smart home space. I'm even interested in Arduino stuff and the like, but I am new to electronics as well, but I want to master it.

[@danielalaniz2395]

I have a Vivio Tv brand new but I can’t get the home setup when I try the code. Anyone have any tips to resolve?

[@Bigglare]

Homekit can't provide a touch screen UI to inexpensive Android devices like Kindle on top of older unused iOS devices.

[@Cali_90s]

The nfc tags are seriously next level man.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Yes they are. Thank you for watching.

[@withoutawire224]

Really nice video Craig. I am a total apple fanboy, but as you know it is a bit limited in the market right now. I do however think that Alexa and Apple homepod with a homeassistant integration will give you the ultimate utopia of automations.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. You are right, it is bit limited. Having both Alexa and HomeKit is the best solution for me too. Using the HomeKit automations are nice. So far Hoobs has filled a couple of voids, but is missing a few things I have. I am excited to see what is coming. Thanks for watching.

[@volcolby]

I’m in the process of changing out for things that work with HomeKit. I know Matter is coming/here, but I don’t really think all my Google and other devices will really work together.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

The problem with the Google and Echos is that you have to get a device that can be a Matter controller. All of Apples HomePods are matter controllers

[@faengelm]

Thanks for creating this. Is there any native support for devices such as motion sensors, buttons, contact closures, light switches without adding a hub like HOOBS?

[@CraigsTechTalk]

I use Philip Hue motion sensors. They have buttons, but I have not used any contact sensors. I am switching and adding Lutron caseta switches for their reliability. Another device I like that I didn't in the beginning are the Flic buttons. They can trigger homekit scenes. I use them for my lights in my studio.

[@cardmstr]

I started replacing all my Alexa devices with HomePods a few months ago and I just finished… I’ve been able to OBSERVE my ads become less relevant across social media and Amazon. That level of privacy is the reason I’m an Apple customer.

[@chriscooper1686]

Great video.. and I love homekit. I have so much automated, that I actually dread to move.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much. It is such a pain to move things over. But it could be worth it. I like having the option to use both echoes and HomePods. But that’s not for everyone.

[@chriscooper1686]

@@CraigsTechTalk Do I need to research Echos? Is there something substantial that I would gain?

[@thndercat1]

Nuthin but issues keeping a connection with HomeKit for my wifi bulbs

[@robbieparr3753]

Great video content, Craig! Loved the heads up on the NFC tags with shortcuts. I checked your Amazon page but I didn’t see if you had a favorite NFC tag/sticker. Any pointers?

[@sattam31]

Is hoobs homekit bridge good?

[@ArrukShallam]

Better go for Homebridge - Hoobs is just a UI which should make Homebridge more accessible, but in my opinion it´s just making Homebridge more complicated. You save neither time nor it´s easier.

[@estherhughes1713]

Fantastic info craig….. from the uk 🇬🇧

[@misteraon]

Instead of Homebridge/HOOBS give Home Assistant a look. Seems to be much more reliable and customizable. I started with Homebridge and moved to Home Assistant as my main home automation brain. Runs on a Raspberry Pi as well. All my devices are in there as well as all my automations. HA automations are much more flexible than HK. I then use HomeKit as the user interface layer on top of this for voice control and some scenes. The HA app is pretty decent too.

[@mikemurphy8652]

Craig - thanks for this video. One thing that drives me crazy about the Alexa app is that my wife can’t access all my routines on her Alexa app. Is this different with Apples ecosystem? It’s enough to make me switch.

[@kristinotto102]

Yes in HomeKit you can have anyone in your “home” have access to the automations and scenes and everything!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Hello Mike, like Kristin said anyone is your “home” (household) has access to those things in their home app. Which is nice because I can do all the work and arrange everything and my wife has access to it easily.

[@jbdragon3295]

@@CraigsTechTalk My 74 year old Dad is clueless about all this still. Doesn’t really use Siri, but he can easily control everything in the Home app. While I’m controlling everything with Siri on my Apple Watch. It’s pretty simple to add others to your HomeKit network. Everything will be right there for them ready to go.

[@lancercncs1822]

Nice video! There are certainly nice things about Homekit (ie. privacy) and the Apple ecosystem. However, Home Assistant is the most powerful smart home automation system there is. And everything in this video (e.g. nfc tags, automations that are person-specific..etc) and so much more can be done in Home Assistant.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thanks for watching the video and sharing your thoughts. I agree with you completely. I don’t believe, this is generously, that more than 25% of people would use home assistant. I would leans towards 10% of users. I want to speak to the other 75-90% of people and bring them easily into this world. Thanks again for watching.

[@lancercncs1822]

@@CraigsTechTalk Fair enough. Homekit is still easier to use (I own it too) but Home Assistant has made it an aim the past couple of years to enhance its acessibility for the "normal Joe/Jane".. and it is MUCH more user-friendly now than it was just a year or two ago. We are not quite they yet, but ALMOST.. Give it another year or two...

[@eximiusrectus]

Thanks for jumping on with HomeKit! #ShareTheLove

[@CtPirate]

Hey Craig, I'm just getting ready to change over from 5 years of Smarthings to Home kit. Have you done or doing a video on Hoobs?? Love the channel I'm new to it.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Hey CT congratulations on making the switch. I think you will be happy you did. Welcome to the channel and thanks for watching. I am still learning about Hoobs and have not make a video on it. I would say to Go check out Shane Whatley below or my buddy Eric at ModernDayTech. Both are HomeKit focused and have made videos on Hoobs. I do like how it has brought my Nest thermostat, Ring and SimpliSafe Alarm into HomeKit Shane - kzbin.info ModernDayTech - kzbin.info

[@CtPirate]

@@CraigsTechTalk Awesome Thanks Very Much, Keep up the great videos! Very impressive

[@CraigsTechTalk]

🙏

[@JaswantSingh-qw2xq]

Wanted to watch a comparison video between google home and HomePod. After watching this. Thank you, HomePod is the way to go!

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Very cool. Glad to help with your decision. I hope you enjoy the HomePod. I just released a video on 10 everyday uses.

[@brianeccleston1775]

hi Graig I am looking to buy some e14 smart bulbs that work with home pod mini and advice? you videos rock BTW :)

[@BDX55]

LIFX or Hive are the only E14 bulbs that are Homekit compatible that I could find. Hive needs a hub whereas LIFX doesn’t.

[@CraigsTechTalk]

Thank you very much Brian, you are too kind. Thank you B D for the help. I saw the same lights as you. But also i was seeing Phillips Hue and Yeelight. Haven’t used any of the e14 but I use hue and LIFX. Hue has been solid and quick with its hub. LIFX has not hub and using WiFi. They can lag at times compared to the Hue.

[@rationaleatheist8769]

A year on, the HomePod is discontinued with no sign of a replacement. So glad I gave it a wide berth

[@CraigsTechTalk]

The HomePod needed to go. They overpriced it and wasn’t good enough as an assistant. I think the mini is to get them back in the game and as a palette cleanser to get people to forgot the original. 😀