There are already a handful of smart home products that are compatible with Apple devices that are already out on the market. However, at the time of writing, you still can’t make use of their full potential as you cannot control them with one master app or hub. This is one of the biggest, if not even the largest disadvantage of the company’s HomeKit. Its software framework that smart gadget builders make use of to power their iOS-compatible gadgets has a platform that is too siloed.
The Apple HomeKit Platform Needs to be Reworked Come iOS 10
While there are many who are already demanding that Apple rework their HomeKit platform when iOS 10 arrives, there are some potentially good news, but it is still inside the rumor mill. Reports state that the company is already hard at work in developing a smart home app for the iOS 10. Their efforts are already ahead of their annual Worldwide Developer’s Conference (WWDC). It the reports have truth in them, then smart home users that depend on the iOS platform would have a much better way at managing their smart home devices such as lights, blinds, locks, and so on, without having to use one app per gadget.
The aforementioned rumor was first spotted by MacRumors, and it allegedly comes from a worker in the Cupertino, California-based tech company who says that they have written on an Amazon review that an Apple HomeKit app is already in the works. Said review states the following: “As I work in marketing for Apple, we test many Smart Home devices, especially for iOS HomeKit integration. […] Some advice, there are many third party applications, most free, that offer more control and customization(s) with many Smart Home devices. “Yonomi” is a free app that I often use, “Home” is another which cost $14.99. Both offer support for many devices with more added daily (including Amazon “Echo”). The next version of iOS due this fall will have a standalone “HomeKit” app as well.”
However, Apple declines to comment with regards to the rumor. Nevertheless, a dedicated HomeKit app is what the company should release come iOS 10. With the use of this dedicated application, it can empower users with an easier way to control their smart home gadgets. Furthermore, the app can also assist in making users feel more connected towards the entire smart home experience. The company should take notes when it comes to the Amazon Echo as it is a dedicated entry point for a smart home. In other words, you can do a whole lot of things with that one device.