HomeKit Insider

Matthew Cassinelli, Shortcuts and automation expert who worked on Workflow and Apple Shortcuts, joins to explore smart home automation. They cover converting automations to shortcuts and running them via HomePod. Topics include conditional logic for reliable toggles, real-world examples like garden watering, and the role of app intents and AI in future home interfaces.

Eric from Modern Day Tech, a YouTuber who reviews smart-home gear and platform integrations. They talk about the pain of remote smart-home installs and why in-person help often wins. They debate a motorized swivel Home Hub and its uses for cameras and FaceTime. They react to Sony handing TV production to TCL and cover Netatmo’s return to thermostats and Matter support.

Dive into the latest in smart home tech as Andrew reviews the Aqara U400 Smart Lock's unique features and installation options. Discover the Govee Nugget Ice Maker Pro, praised for its fast ice production and chewable nuggets, although it lacks Matter certification. IKEA’s new Matter-over-Thread lineup is explored, highlighting their motion sensor and adaptive lighting capabilities. Andrew also touches on the exciting potential of AI in enhancing smart home technology and shares insights from CES. Tune in for trends and tips for the future of smart living!

This discussion dives into the latest smart home innovations showcased at CES. Apple is pushing a mandatory home architecture upgrade, promising better compatibility. Exciting new products from Lifex, EVE, and Aqara aim to enhance connectivity through Matter. Roborock introduces advanced vacuums that navigate like pros. IKEA rolls out budget-friendly Matter sensors and lighting. New smart locks and GE's Matter-enabled shades are turning heads, while Philips Hue integrates with Apple Home for enhanced experiences. It's a tech lover's paradise!

Get a sneak peek into CES 2026 as Andrew O'Hara breaks down the latest smart home innovations. Discover Matter-enabled cameras and how Roomba is integrating Matter support for smarter cleaning. Exciting launches loom with Aliro enhancements for locks and smart appliances from Hisense and Samsung. Explore Govee's new lighting options and their Pro ice maker, plus UltraLock's advanced security features. Withings unveils a health scale packed with biomarker insights, all while preparing for the busy show ahead!

Dan Turk, a frequent voice on smart home trends and robotics, joins to discuss the dramatic shifts in the home tech landscape. The duo unearths the downfall of iRobot, linking its struggles to regulatory challenges and competition from Chinese innovators. They also spotlight emerging US contenders like Matic, which are navigating the market with camera strategies. Plus, Dan shares his favorite smart picks, including the X-Jimmy Mogo 4 projector and highlights Aqara's cameras for their reliability and integration.

Scott Harkins, SVP of Sales at Resideo, shares his expertise in smart home technology. As CES approaches, he discusses Honeywell Home's innovative thermostat with a customizable screen and emphasizes the benefits of the Thread technology for device reliability and battery life. Scott also talks about Resideo's integration of Matter, their strategy for creating interconnected home networks, and hints at future upgrades for their hardware, including adaptive temperature support for Apple devices. Tune in for a sneak peek into the future of smart homes!

Jason Johnson, co-founder of August Smart Lock and founder of DOMA Home, dives into the future of smart home technology. He shares insights on the innovative Doma Intelligent Door with features like hands-free unlocking and environmental sensors. The conversation touches on challenges in access control and the importance of reliability in smart homes. Johnson also discusses DOMA's commitment to open ecosystems and the potential of Matter for interoperability, making us rethink the way we interact with our home environments.

Explore the latest in smart home technology as the host dives into Nuki's shift to a revamped pricing structure and Honeywell's premium Matter thermostat features. Discover Aqara’s exciting Siri integration for the S1 Plus wall display and the rumors surrounding their dual-lens Matter camera. Chamberlain’s controversial restrictions on third-party integrations raise eyebrows, while Anker's innovative wireless charger impresses with its design and functionality. Plus, don’t miss the review of SwitchBot's candle warmer, perfect for holiday vibes!

The latest buzz in smart home tech centers around the promising Matter 1.5 update. Camera support is a headline feature, with upcoming models from Xthings and timelines for Aqara and Eve's Matter integrations. Apple’s anticipated smart display and its potential as an intelligence hub is also discussed, with features like AI-driven notifications and widget integration. Plus, personal anecdotes about smart devices in power outages add a relatable touch. Finally, the Nomad Tracking Card Pro review wraps it all up.