Smart Home Insider

In this special episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew is joined by Chris LaPré from the Connectivity Standard Alliance to discuss the highly anticipated Matter 1.5 update. The conversation delves into the new features and improvements, including support for cameras, closures, soil sensors, and advanced energy management. Chris shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of integrating these updates into existing ecosystems, highlighting the potential for enhanced interoperability and consumer experience.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Nuki: Grab your Nuki smart lock & Keypad 2 bundle on Amazon or from Nuki direct and save 15% using code NUKIAI15 until December 31!
• Surfshark: Go to https://surfshark.com/homekit or use code homekit at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Matter 1.5 Release

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara is joined by Genie Peshkova, the Zigbee Marketing Product Group Chair, to discuss the latest updates in smart home technology. They delve into the exciting announcements of Zigbee 4.0 and the new Suzy brand, exploring their implications for smart energy management and enhanced security. The conversation also covers the latest in sensor technology, including Akara's multi-presence sensor and SwitchBot's new offerings. Tune in for insights into the evolving landscape of smart home devices and what these advancements mean for the future.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Surfshark: Go to https://surfshark.com/homekit or use code homekit at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit
• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Genie Peshkova
• Aqara FP300
• SwitchBot Presence Sensor
• AIDot Linkind Bulb
• Zigbee 4.0 Announcement
• Suzi

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara dives into the latest updates in the smart home world, including Apple's tvOS 26.1 and 26.2 updates, IKEA's new lineup of smart home devices, and a review of the Synology DS723 Plus NAS. Andrew also shares personal experiences with various smart home gadgets and offers insights into maintaining a smart home. 

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout
• Notion Agent: Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at notion.com/homekit
• Incogni: Take your personal data back with Incogni! Get 60% off an annual plan at https://incogni.com/homekit and use code HOMEKIT at checkout.

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Synology Lineup
• HomePass App
• HomeBatteries App
• K11+ Mini Vacuum
• Eve Flare
• Aqara G3 2K Cam & Hub
• Aqara P2 Sensor
• Nanoleaf Skylight Starter Kit

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, hosts Andrew O'Hara and Wes Hilliard dive into the latest smart home innovations and challenges. They discuss the potential bankruptcy of iRobot, the introduction of DJI's new robotic vacuum, and the intriguing features of the Akara Cam G100. The conversation also touches on the importance of local control in smart home devices and the evolving landscape of Matter integration. Tune in for insights on the future of smart home technology and practical advice for navigating the ever-changing tech ecosystem.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Surfshark: Go to https://surfshark.com/homekit or use code homekit at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit
• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• iRobot bankruptcy concerns
• Neato server shutdown notice
• DJI Romo vacuum
• SwitchBot candle warmer
• GE Cync new lights
• Samsung Smart Home Hub 2
• Aqara G100 Camera

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew welcomes Cole Ashman, founder and CEO of Pela, to discuss the future of smart home power integrations. They delve into the innovative solutions offered by Pela, including a plug-and-play battery system designed for every home and business. Cole shares insights from his experience at Tesla and Span, highlighting the importance of energy independence and the convergence of smart home technology with power management. Tune in to explore how these advancements are reshaping the way we think about home energy solutions.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit
• Zapier: Get started for free by visiting zapier.com/homekit
• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Kohler Dekoda
• Walmart Onn Streamer Issue
• Whisker Litter Robot 5
• Lux TQX Smart Matter Thermostat
• Pila Energy

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this exciting episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara dives into the latest Apple TV updates, including a rebranding and new features. He also discusses the integration of Formula One racing into Apple TV, the latest smart home innovations, and the intriguing updates from Sonos and Eve. Plus, Andrew shares personal anecdotes and insights into the world of smart home technology, making this episode a must-listen for tech enthusiasts. Tune in for a blend of news, personal stories, and expert opinions!

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit
• CleanMyMac:  Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code HOMEKIT for 20% off at clnmy.com/HOMEKITINSIDER
• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Apple TV rebranding
• Apple TV Peacock bundle
• Eddy Cue talks Apple TV rebrand
• MLS Playoffs for free on Apple TV
• Eve 10 year anniversary sale
• Aqara G410 doorbell
• TP-Link Wi-Fi 8

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, Andrew welcomes Rob Alexander, Principal Product Manager for Matter at Silicon Labs. Despite multiple recording challenges, they dive into the latest developments in smart home technology. Rob shares insights on the new Matter certification program, which aims to streamline the integration of smart home devices. They discuss the potential of smart displays, the evolution of Matter, and the exciting future of IoT devices. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in the smart home industry, including the role of AI and the importance of seamless connectivity.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Google to work on new smart displays
• New Matter chip certification program

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara navigates solo through a whirlwind of tech updates and insights. Despite a scheduling hiccup with guest Rob Alexander, Andrew dives into the latest on Matter 1.5, shares his experiences with Apple's new devices, and explores the intriguing world of smart home technology. From the challenges faced by Tile to the innovative updates from Amazon and Google, Andrew offers a comprehensive look at the current landscape. Tune in for a blend of personal anecdotes, industry news, and a glimpse into the future of smart home integration.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout
• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Ecobee rolls back Apple Home support for security system
• Testing Telly free TV
• Google event roundup

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, hosts Andrew O'Hara and Dan Turk dive into the latest in smart home technology, discussing the integration of AI in everyday devices and the evolving landscape of home automation. They explore the impact of new AI capabilities and the implications for smart home security and privacy. The conversation also touches on the latest updates from major tech events, including Amazon and Google's upcoming launches, and what these mean for Apple's future in the smart home space. Tune in for insights on the future of smart home technology and how it might shape our daily lives.

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Zapier: Get started for free by visiting zapier.com/homekit
• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout
• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• Kohler Anthem+ & Control4
• Aqara 6.0 update on App Store
• Ultraloq Bolt NFC 

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of HomeKit Insider, Andrew dives into the latest Apple product launches, including new iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watches. He shares his hands-on experiences and the challenges of choosing the right device. The episode also explores the latest from Switchbot, including their new vacuums, and discusses the intriguing features of CleanMyMac's cloud cleanup tool. Andrew wraps up with insights into the evolving smart home landscape, touching on Google's rebranding efforts and Samsung's controversial ad plans for smart fridges. Tune in for a tech-packed discussion!

Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:

• @andrew_osu on Twitter
• @andrewohara941 on Threads
• Email me here

Sponsored by:

• Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. The first 1,000 users get $100 credit. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT at checkout
• Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekit
• CleanMyMac:  Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code HOMEKIT for 20% off at clnmy.com/HOMEKITINSIDER

HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel

• Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.

Links from the show

• SwitchBot S20
• SwitchBot K11+
• Android Central Google Home naming
• Android Authority Gemini leak
• Meross Smoke Detector
• Meross Thermostat

Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: [email protected]