Apple TV Required for Remote Control of HomeKit Accessories

Beyond detailing how to set up and use HomeKit-compatible accessories, Apple has confirmed that Apple TV is required as a central hub to control all connected devices while on the go.

The information was shared by Apple in a new support document, which details that HomeKit works with any iOS device running iOS 8.1 or later and certified accessories. As of now, the latter includes products from Elgato – Eve Door & Window, Eve Energy, Eve Weather, and Eve Room – iHome’s Smart Plug iSP5, Insteon Hub Pro, and Lutron’s Smart Bridge, the majority of which were introduced yesterday.

After downloading the app provided by the manufacturer, Apple says you need to find the eight-digit HomeKit setup code that ships with the device. Some accessories allow users to group them together in homes, rooms, and scenes.

Since these are all connected devices, you will be able to control them while on the go when you have Internet access. The catch is that you need to own an Apple TV running iOS 7.0 or later.

If you have an Apple TV (3rd generation or later) with software version 7.0 or later, you can control your HomeKit-enabled accessories when you’re away from home using your iOS device.

Sign in with the same Apple ID on your iOS device and Apple TV, and you’ll be able to use Siri commands to remotely control your accessories.

Apple announced HomeKit in 2014, and it took a year for the first compatible devices to be announced. This year Apple is widely expected to announce a new A8-chip-based Apple TV (a product line that has been due for a refresh for some time now), which is rumoured to feature additional storage among others.

This year’s Worldwide developer conference will kick off on Monday, June 8, at 10:00 a.m. PDT.