The first HomeKit-enabled products were launched yesterday. Apple has now confirmed that Apple TV will serve as a hub for the connected home, allowing you to use Siri to control your home while away.
Apple TV as a hub for the connected home
Most big players seem to agree that the home will be one of the next battlegrounds. Apple wants to make it possible with HomeKit that is linked to Siri and iPhone. By asking Siri to "turn on the lights in the living room" or "turn up the temperature" you can control your connected devices.
The company now confirms that the Apple TV box will serve as a hub for the home, making it possible to speak commands to Siri even when you are away.
”If you have an Apple TV (3rd generation or later) with software version 7.0 or later, you can control your HomeKit-enabled accessories when you’re away from home using your iOS device. Sign in with the same Apple ID on your iOS device and Apple TV, and you’ll be able to use Siri commands to remotely control your accessories.”
HomeKit products will also offer an app for iPhone/iPad that can be used for setup. This suggests that Apple TV is used only to pass on commands to lamps, locks, thermostats etc. You can see a complete list HomeKit products here.
WWDC 2015 kicks off on Monday. Apple is expected to introduce a new Apple TV box with an app store and Siri as well as iOS 9 and other things.
- Source: Apple via 9to5mac
