Apple Announces New HomeKit-Enabled ‘Home’ App in iOS 10

Apple today revealed an all-new HomeKit-centric app called “Home,” which will make its debut in iOS 10 this fall. The app will act as a hub for a user’s HomeKit-enabled devices, regardless of their manufacturer, letting users control everything from smart light bulbs to garage door openers from one app. HomeKit will be built into Control Center now as well, letting users tap through their smart home devices without unlocking their iPhone.

Support for HomeKit™ continues to expand globally with nearly 100 home automation products adopting HomeKit this year, bringing support for thermostats, lights, window shades, door locks, video cameras and more to the Home app. Later this year, leading home builders, including Brookfield Residential, KB Home, Lennar Homes and R&F Properties, will begin integrating many of these HomeKit devices into new homes.

Users can group accessories into “scenes,” or control them individually, and each device will be able to react to Siri voice commands. Apple confirmed that each device can be controlled remotely or even set up for home automation on Apple TV, “and can respond with automatic triggers set by time of day, location or action.”

Check out our iOS 10 WWDC keynote recap for more information on HomeKit, Messages, Apple Music, and more.

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