What does Abode’s HomeKit certification mean?
Apple HomeKit compatibility is now available for Abode’s iota and Smart Security kit solutions which means your system is now accessible & controllable through the Home app on compatible Apple devices.
What can I do with this integration?
Apple users can enroll their Abode gateway and compatible devices into the Home app. The Abode/HomeKit integration supports the ability to:
- Arm or disarm their system from the Home app
- Access a live stream of iota’s built-in 1080p streaming camera directly from the Home app
- Ask Siri for the status of the system
- Receive alerts and trigger a HomeKit-based automation via motion events triggered by Abode motion sensors and open/close events triggered by Abode door/window sensors
- Add compatible security devices to their existing groups by room
Which Abode devices are HomeKit compatible?
Currently, our iota and Smart Security Kit gateways--as well as the Abode motion sensor (if purchased after December of 2018), occupancy sensor, and Abode-branded door/window sensors--can be added to the Home app when connected to the Abode gateway.
Which Starter Kits are HomeKit compatible?
Both iota and our Smart Security Kit are HomeKit certified.
How do I create rules or automations with this integration?
Once your system and sensors are enrolled into the Home app, you can use Apple’s automation engine to create smart home rules and automations that include their Abode security system or continue to use Abode’s CUE.
How does remote access with HomeKit work?
For remote access to the home through HomeKit, users must have an Apple TV (4th generation or later), HomePod, or iPad running iOS 10 or later at home.
Do I need a new gateway to get this functionality?
Any iota or smart security kit gateway user is eligible to take advantage of this integration. The only gateway that is not yet HomeKit certified is the original version of our gateway which we stopped selling in February of 2019. This gateway remains in certification with Apple and we will make it available as soon as it is approved.
When will Gen 1 be compatible?
We continue to work with Apple to bring certification to this gateway and will make this available as soon as certification is achieved.
Can I arm & Disarm using Siri?
Yes, arm and disarm functionality is possible through Siri
Can I manually capture video clips via the home app?
No, you cannot. This has to be done through the Abode App.
What about my other sensors and devices?
These will still be connected to your Abode system. We are working hard to bring full HomeKit compatibility across our entire portfolio of Abode-branded devices. We prioritized bringing HomeKit certifications to our gateways and most fundamental accessories first.
What about my Abode compatible third party devices?
This is up to the individual manufacturer. You cannot add a non HomeKit certified device to your Home app through Abode.
Can I trigger my Abode alarm using devices already paired with my HomeKit?
Unfortunately not at this time. This is a feature that Apple has not yet added so we are dependent on them to make it available. If they do enable this in the future, we will be sure to make it a supported feature with your Abode system.
Will the Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera Be HomeKit compatible?
Not at this time.
Will the Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera have HomeKit Secure Video?
This is something we are currently exploring with Apple. We cannot yet commit to anything at this time.