Excellent video Shane! Siri is underrated for sure. For anything within the smart home world and for music , Siri is excellent. I have been trying to build smarter scenes and build more complex automations lately, so this was a very helpful video. Thank you!
Great tips! Thank you for your awesome videos! I’m also striving to make everything in my home HomeKit compatible... almost there 😅 I agree the scenes are everything and it feels like “magic”. Recently purchased a HomePod for the living room. Now I want one for every room 😂. I do find myself using Siri even more since getting the HomePod. Looking forward to your next videos - You rock! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Thank you! I agree...same experience here using siri more since getting a HomePod. And that's also when I noticed my family actually interacting more with my smart home...setting scenes, lights, etc. And I also want one for every room now too! That's why I keep hoping they'll introduce a smaller, less expensive version. Maybe one day...one can dream!
I already broke down and purchased a HomePod , LOL!! I got it last week and I already want a second one for upstairs 🤣. Great tips, Thank You!!! I always thought you needed to be very specific. I think a lot of people don’t try things out and push the limits...kudos to you!
Been getting into Homekit recently and your videos are super helpful! Also - glad to see someone giving the Apple TV some praise. It's EASILY the most underrated streaming box on the market by a LONG shot. I didn't know you could do the "what did he/she say" thing though - that's awesome!
Great video! Need to get busy and setup a few good evening scenes. Also if you have HomePods in your home, they can help Siri know where you are in the home and only control specific rooms without calling out the room name.
Shane, awesome video! 👍🏽 Love the UA-cam “Shane Creates” gag. 😂😂 I’m still laughing. Keep up the great / informative work to our HomeKit community. BTW, great video & editing Bro. 🍿🍻
Been an Alexa user for years but have started to drift from Amazon and into Google and Apple. Most of the home stuff Apple and Google can do is pretty impressive. Thanks for the tips.
quick question from "be specific, or not"....do the names of the lights or whatever need to at least be close to what you are saying? for example, room- kitchen, lights- ceiling, table. but let's say i named the lights, "kitchen_ceiling1" and "kitchen_table2", because i have two table lights. does it work if i say, "turn off the table light in the kitchen?" thanks again man...great vid. I'm learning so much...i completely new to all of this.
You'll probably want the names to be something you can remember and say. Alternatively, you can group accessories together if you want to control them together. For example, group Kitchen_ceiling1 and Kitchen_table 2 together and name the group "Table light." Then just say turn on/off the table light. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!
I got Braava and Roomba on switches in HomeKit under Hoobs with IFTTT, on to start, off to dock, thanks to you. And when I say “Hay Siri! Open Garage Door 1” it ask “Authorization Code?” And if don’t say the right code, it won’t open. How cool.😎
@@ShaneCreates Honestly, because of being wet, the wheels on the braava tend to slip and it has a lot of trouble docking because of that. There is a lot of room for improvement in robot mops. Maybe it they made one with suction cup legs... But as far a getting it to communicate in Homekit... 👍🏽.
Hey Shane, great video as always, small comment however, I find it very annoying that you remove “hey Siri” voice and replace it with a pop sound, I understand why you did it. But you can just cut it off the video or use Siri button instead, we will still get it, it’s just the pop sound repeats too much and I find it distracting. Keep up the good work
When I ask Siri “turn off Downstairs lights, except for the Living Room” she simply turns off my living room lights. I don’t understand why this doesn’t work as you’ve shown in the video.
Good morning, Shane! ☕️ You’ve done a great job of illustrating Siri’s ability to handle multi-syllable words in complex sentences. BTW: I created a simple Scene titled “Master Switch” which shuts down everything. Just for the heck of it, I tried: “Hit the Master Switch” and Siri recognized the command! It looks like Apple is really taking HomeKit seriously now. The new apps for iOS, iPadOS and macOS are so much better than past versions. One question: What do you do when you check (away from home) and realize that your garage door was left open but you get the dreaded “No Response” icon?😖
Hello Shane I recently set up my home link mini pod I’m able to control the lights from the Homelink use a Lurton casita switch however from my iPad or iPhone when I get the commands turn on the lights I get a message from Siri I can’t find anything in your home under that name what do I need to do? Is their a tech support number I could call?
Suggestion for another video would be the new Apple TV 14.0 IOS. They have added shortcuts to the Apple TV and cameras. It might have been there before, but it is more advance.
Shane-great video as always. I checked the description and can’t find what blinds you use with Siri and HomeKit. I might have missed it but wanted to ask.
Thanks David! Indeed, I did forget to add those in the description. Sorry about that and thanks for letting me know. I'll update it asap. FYI I'm using the Soma Tilt with Connect. Made a video on them here: ua-cam.com/video/tpE-aA8ZchE/v-deo.html
It would be very interesting if you let us know what router or products you have so that everything works correctly in your home, such as a router, mesh networks or others.
I put links to everything I use in my HomeKit setup in the description of every video. Also, on my website: shanewhatley.com I have a section of the recommended products that I use.
Heyy man…you’re a machine man…really appreciate all the info you share! Thank you!:) I have a quick question: are you able to tell me why Siri absolutely needs me to unlock my iphone when i ask her to turn on or off one of my smart plugs? They are HomeKit compatible and already installed on my phone! Thx for the help man!🍻
Thanks for the support! You should not need to unlock your phone just for turning on smart plugs with HomeKit. That should only be a requirement for "secure" accessories (smart locks, security system, etc.) Are the plugs accessible in the Home app? And do you have a HomeKit Hub?
I started to poke around all the settings in all the apps related to home and Siri…there is a place in the Siri settings where u can pick the apps that Siri can control without unlocking your phone🤦♂️ That cleared up my problems! I’m just getting started with all this homekit stuff…it’s soo cool! My girlfriend is freaking out with all the Amazon packages arriving at the house!😂😂 Thx so much for the quick response man! Stay safe! 🤘😎🤘 Brent
I’ve been Apple since 2010ish and I’ve gotten to the ripe age of where I’m considering what will best fit me and my family and I thought they only way of doing that *affordably* is switching over to Google (that including Cast, Phones, Laptop, Speakers, etc.) Thank you for showing me that it’s unnecessary and I can stay with I know and love!! (Even if my bank account doesn’t) Only thing I’m concerned about is that Apple constantly makes updates, and I wonder if it will make certain home accessories “old” and being forced to upgrade them.
Hey Shunia, glad I could help you see the light! 😄 Yes, I now is a great time to get into homekit in my opinion. There is more competition in the market for products, resulting in more available products that support homekit and more affordable pricing than ever before. And I think that trend will continue. I don't see Apple doing anything that would make working homekit accessories not work, forcing you to buy new ones. Of course anything is possible I suppose, but Apple has shown lately that they are committed to the smart home so I assume they want to keep us happy. In fact, this has been a big issue in the Google/Nest smart home world over the past couple of years with the "works with nest" drama. Generally with Apple, "it just works."
Love the video as always mate. One question, your bedroom lights have that candle effect, I know I’ve seen the set up in a previous video but I can’t find anywhere
Thanks! Yes, I believe that's set up in this video here: ua-cam.com/video/2vgsBaVcC_Q/v-deo.html This does require VOCOlinc lights FYI (for homekit control). As far as I know, they are the only manufacturer that expose a light effect mode to homekit.
There aren't too many ceiling fans with homekit support. I prefer to use Lutron fan controller wall switches, then you can just use that and any ceiling fan you wish. Of course you must have a fan that is controlled by a wall switch for this to work.
My personal preference is to use proximity triggers rather than Siri. I feel it’s a bit creepy for Siri to be listening to every conversation in the house, waiting to see if anyone says, “hey Siri”. Is it possible to have Siri only trigger if I push a button on my iPhone or AppleWatch?
I share your sentiment about privacy (too many people mindlessly put free alexas in their home), however, „hey siri“ is recognised locally, only you really said „hey siri“, the stuff you said afterwards is being set to into the internet.
Nice video. It's a pitty That siri can't give spoken responses. For example when a door opens. You can flicker a light, but not possible to give a spoken responds ("door open"). That option is not avaible in shortcuts. Maybe the next update? 😉
Thanks! It is possible if using a HomePod or airplay 2 speaker...sort of. You can automate the HomePod to play any custom sound when a HomeKit sensor or accessory is triggered. It's not ideal because it may not be super fast and it will also mess up any music playing on the speaker. I'm hoping to get something like the new doorbell chime that can be used across any HomeKit automations. I experimented with this a while ago. I made an automation that played a file from my library when my son turned on the Apple TV past the hours that he's supposed to. I recorded a very robotic Siri voice saying "You should not be here...go to bed now." just to mess with him. When the Apple TV turned on, the HomePod spoke and then made the TV turn off. lol
Shane Whatley 😁👍 Yes, That's an option. But you need an account music. Whitout That you cant select an audio file. I hope they Will put speace in home automation like in the personal shortcut automatisations. Good Luck with the channel 😉
What annoys me is the HomePod can handle "compound statements" meaning she remembers context from one command to another, yet you still need to say Hey Siri between each which seems to defeat the purpose. For example you can say "Hey Sir, Will it rain today?", she replies, then you can say "Hey Siri, What about tomorrow?" and she will understand you still mean what the weather will be. BUT if I don't say Hey Siri the second time she won't :(
I really wish Apple would rethink this requirement to always say Hey before Siri all the time, it’s so unnatural and long winded, it’s the one reason I prefer the Alexa atm
Alexa is the long-winded one!!! I can give examples of this. Yes, you have to say HEY for Siri on most devices. Except for the Apple Watch!!! Lift your wrist and just say your command. So let me give some examples since you seem to be clueless? Not trying to be MEAN, but stating facts as I use Siri, Alexa, and Google. For this example, I'm going to use my Blinds made by MySmartBlinds. Now if I want to open my Blinds in my computer room using Alexa, which is the only way I could until today, I would have to say this. "Alexa, TELL MySmartBlinds to open computer room. With Alexa you have to Ask it or Tell it do so something and with what device!!! That is a fact. Now I just got HOOPS and using a MySmartBlinds Plug-In, I can now use them with Siri. I can lift my wrist and just say "Open Computer Room Blinds" and they open up!!!! Or if I was on my iPhone or iPad, kya, I can say "Hey Siri, Open Computer Room Blind" What is more wordy? What is more natural? My Dad lives at my house and he has trouble trying to remember how to open the blind in the computer room. How is he going to remember MySmartBlinds, let alone ask or tell Alexa to do something? Same goes for my Ecobee 4. I would have to say something like "Alexa, Ask Ecobee set temp 68" Or I can lift my first and speak into my Apple Watch and say, Set temp 68. Or other devices "Hey Siri, Set Temp to 68" It's smart enough to know I'm talking about the Ecobee. My garage door, I can lift my wrist and say "Open Garage" 2 words!!!! Or "Close Garage" and that happens!!! Google is more along the lines of Apple. Alexa is really the wordy one!!!! If it's something basic with Alexa like asking for the temp, sure, one less word. "Alexa, what's the temp", "Hey Siri, What's the temp"!!! Or Apple Watch"What's the temp". 1 less word than Alexa there!!! But when you get into controlling 3rd party things. and you have to ASK or TELL it to do something and with what device you want to control, Alexa becomes pretty wordy. It's also pretty picky and will be clueless if you don't say something 100% perfect. Google and Siri are a bit more Natural. I am a Homekit house overall but have some Google/Alexa only type devices. Many are Wyze. Hope to get them moved into the Homekit world using HOOBS and Homebridge. I have Alexa on my Ecobee 4, my Echo Show 8, and even a couple Echo Dot 2nd generation and 3rd generation that I currently don't have plugged in, and a Google Mini to play around with. Even Cortana on my Windows 10 Desktop. So overall I find it pretty funny how you're hung up on HEY. Where Hey Siri or Alexa isn't that big of a deal or having an Apple watch not having to say Hey Siri at all. You're 1 word over my ZERO word(s)!!! So I'm playing around with all of them and this is my experience and I've always said Alexa is the wordy one. That is a fact!!! Having to Ask or Tell it to do something SUCKS. Having to name the device you want to control SUCKS. Alexa overall is pretty dumb. Yes, it has a ton of Plug-In, but now you have to remember them all exactly so you can use them. Alexa is so dumb, that even built into my Ecobee, it was 100% clueless it was even there until I installed the Ecobe Plug-In. I kind of find that funny, yet kind of lame. Of course, I've also figured out that using Alexa on the Ecobee, in general, is dumb and sucks. Who wants to control things standing up in a hallway? Better off getting an Ecobee 3 and getting an Amazon Dot and place the Dot in a more useful place if you want Alexa. That's my takeaway.
Can I get Siri to turn on or off cameras? I have a camera in my Garage but it annoys me that it constantly triggers/records when I don't need it to. I only want alerts/recordings under certain conditions. I'd love to set up a scene that enables/disables them but can't figure out how :(
No, unfortunately we currently don't have the ability to use the camera recording options within scenes or automations. The best you can do is by using the options available in the camera (recording people, animals, vehicles only...recording only while home or away... etc.) I've heard of some people that plugin in a camera to a smart plug and then automate that smart plug to turn off the camera completely when they want. Probably not ideal, but maybe that is something to consider.
@@ShaneCreates Yeah I thought about that but unfortunately in this case the cameras are battery operated. Was hoping you might know of a third party app or something. I think I read somewhere that homebridge might all you to modify those settings you mentioned? I ordered a HOOBS and waiting on that to see if ti does or not (not the only reason I bought it).
For German, Siri is a dummy, unfortunately. Just happened yesterday: "Turn off " - "I cannot find any speaker with this name". Or sometimes it doesn't work to say "turn off", but you have to say "switch of" (freely translated from German). 🙄
Hello, thanks for that video ;-) When I say to siri to listen to music everywhere, it launches music on all my homepod mini's but also on my tv. How to remove the tv from this siri voice command (I mean without saying "everywhere exept the tv") ? Thanks a lot.
That is frustrating. I'm not sure if there is a way to avoid that with the play "everywhere" command...I guess that means any Airplay devices. Maybe creating a shortcut is the answer. Maybe the "set destination playback" action could work for this? I haven't tried that with multiple speakers but could be worth a shot.
Hey Shane!! Really enjoy your channel and wanted to see if I could get some HomeKit advice from you. I am trying to put some lighting under 4 shelves in my living room. What do you recommend?
Thanks Robert! That could be a tough one. Typically I like lightstrips if they can be hidden under shelves or cabinets, but I'm not sure if that would work in your case since you'll need to plug them in. I can't think of any good solutions that don't require running power cables that work with homekit out of the box. Not sure how far you're willing to go with it, but you might could consider using some type of cheaper battery powered puck lights or light bars that operate with an IR remote. Then, if you are running HomeBridge or Hoobs, use an IR blaster of some kind and a homebridge plugin to incorporate it into homekit. A bit complicated, I know, but the only thing I can think of that don't require wires and outlets.
Shane Whatley cool idea with possibly using a bridge. Do you have any videos with your light strip setup and installation? I remember your Halloween video from last year. Also what brand of light strip do you recommend?
@@robertfoster108 Yea, if you go WAY back, some of my first videos were me using the light strips and putting them in the kitchen. However, all I did there was basically lay the light strip across the top of the cabinets. I recently just had a new backsplash installed in my kitchen and I have plans to add strip lights underneath the cabinets here. This will be a bit more challenging because there are breaks in the cabinets. I am planning on making a video showing the instal. I have been using a Vocolinc lightstrip in the kitchen for a couple of years. It is cool because you can control the effects in HomeKit and they are super affordable compared to others. I also have phillips hue, Eve, and other Vocolinc strips throughout the house...all of which work great for me.
Thanks! Two ways you can do it: 1) You need a TV with HomeKit support or 2) if you use an Apple TV connected to your TV with HDMI CEC enabled, the TV will turn on and off when the Apple TV does.
Question about hoobs homebridge. I have vivint at home right now, I'd like to stop using their for pay service... and shift entirely to HomeKit. In reviewing the vivint plug-in there were fields needing username and password... For hoobs to be functional, do I have to keep my for pay service with Vivint?
@@anatoliyefimov4984 I'm not entirely sure as I don't have much experience with vivint. It may depend if there is an option to maintain an account at a free level. But I can't say without looking into it more.
Hi, I know it's a bit late, but I have a problem. I have Homekit and several devices with it. The problem comes when ,,,, to expand my Wi-Fi network, I have added a xiaomi router or a mesh network. This creates another Wi-Fi network different from the one of the operator and Homekit does NOT connect to it, only to the operator. What happens if, for example, I am in the room and the mobile is connected to the other network (the one that is not the operator's), I cannot use Homekit and I have to move, as close as possible to the operator's router and so connect to the operator's Wi-Fi network (then ,,, ay ,,, if Homekit goes). Can you explain what I'm doing wrong? Could you explain it to me or do a tutorial or video, explaining that it is necessary to modify in the operator's router, so that when putting a mesh network or another router, it does not create a second and different wifi network or ,,,,,, be able to do, That the mesh device or alternative router is the one that dominates (to say the least) and not the attendant router. We appreciate it
Not sure I understand the question. But regarding mesh networks, generally all of your access points will use the same SSID. So if you are using a true mesh network, it should not matter which access point you are connected to.
What is your "Party Time" scene? I've been wanting to do something similar and make the colors rotate on my Hue light strip and the hue lights behind my TV
Unfortunately it's not so easy with Hue. I used vocolinc lights for that scene and it allows you to change light effects in homekit. As far as I know, no other lights allow that inside homekit. For Hue, you'd probably have to use a combination of shortcuts and maybe a 3rd party hue app to get the lighting effects. It could potentially work as a shortcut but not a homekit scene.
@@ShaneCreates Dang! I have a few 3rd party ones I may checkout. But, I just ordered the same stip you have cause the price is amazing on it! Cheaper than Hue! Thanks!
@@iamdjremedy Yea, that's why I originally got vocolinc, they were probably the most affordable homekit lightstrips out at the time. They've worked great for me and the light effects are an added bonus! As far as 3rd party apps for hue goes, just find one that supports siri shortcuts and you can probably make some shortcuts with the effects.
Good tips but I had an issue that seems odd. I tried "it's too bright in here" and it turn the lights 25% brighter. I then tried saying "I'm cold and siri turned the thermostat down 1 degree. Anyone else ever have this issue?
I’m on iOS 14 beta, but the HOOBS enabled devices don’t seem to be recognized by Siri. Are you having that same issue? My homepods recognize them just fine but my iPhone on Beta doesn’t. Any ideas?
No, I'm not having that issue. I've got some devices on iOS 14 and some still on iOS 13 and all my Hoobs accessories seem to be working fine on all of them.
Shane Whatley I’ve had no problem with the app, but Siri doesn’t recognize any of the Hoobs devices when activated on iOS 14 devices. The devices in the app work fine as do the automations. I really enjoyed your video this week. Excellent work.
@@daringeric Thanks Eric! That is strange. Must be some type bug in iOS beta, since there are no issues on your HomePod. I tried using siri on my phone running iOS 14 beta and it appears to be working fine for hoobs accessories. Maybe it's some sort of bug when using hub devices in homekit, since homekit sees hoobs as a hub.
hi shane, i have a Ring doorbell 2 on my front door, but I want to chance to one they have support of HomeKit, what is your recommendation? regards from panama
Hey Carlos. Currently there aren't any good video doorbells that support homekit natively just yet. But there should be some coming out in the very near future. I'd recommend waiting till we see what becomes available. The other other option is to incorporate your existing Ring doorbell into homekit using homebridge or Hoobs.
@@carlosgaruz8937 Yes, you should be able to get the Apple TV notifications on the Apple TV using the ring plugin. I don't have a ring, so I haven't tried it personally, but I've seen online others who have gotten this to work. There is a "hoobs certified" plugin for Ring, so you can probably ask the support team about any questions like this and they should be able to answer.
It should be possible to expose it to HomeKit via Homebridge or Hoobs. I use the homebridge-roomba-stv plugin with Hoobs for my roomba 900 series. Additionally, if you only need Siri control and don't care too much about exposing it to HomeKit, you can use IFTTT and shortcuts. Here's an older video on that method: ua-cam.com/video/mNW3UfZaeBQ/v-deo.html
I guess you can think of it as being LAZY I guess. It all depends on what you are doing. For example, I can open and close my garage door which is how I come and go using SIRI if I want. You may think why? LAZY? Well, how about not having to keep a garage door opener in my Truck!!! Say I'm out someplace, someone breaks in, takes my Remote, finds my Registration in the glove box, now can go right to my house, click the button and go right into my house. Now having a remote in my Truck at all solves that. How about being able to close and Open my Garage door using SIRI and my Mic linked to my iPhone. Now take it a step further. Install some Smart Light Switches in my garage. I can turn the lights on and off like always. They still work as light switches. But now I have 1 of my light switches linked to my garage door using Apple's Home App. When the garage door starts to open, the lights on the side of the garage turn ON. Giving me a whole lot more light to see that the light from the garage door opener only. When the door closes, the light goes OFF. That's how I have it setup. You can have it only doing that during certain hours like for night time only. The best thing is that it doesn't matter if I open or close the garage door using Siri, or I hit the button on the wall, or use a normal RF car remote or the remote outside of the garage. The opener and the light are still linked and so will still turn on/off with the door. My 74-year-old Dad lives at my house and this is his favorite thing. When he leaves during daylight and comes home after dark. When the door opens, he can see a whole lot better and not trip over something. Amazon can do Deliveries inside my garage!!! It's great. The front door wasn't really an option with a Security Gate on the door. My Dad is normally home as he is retired and didn't want some stranger walking in and delivering that way through the front door. But the Garage, YES. They hit their open button, stick the package inside, hit the close button and now my delivery is not going to get taken. They can't come back later and get inside. I do use a WYZE security camera inside my garage. Had it before I started doing this. It works just fine for this. I've had no issues. They're in/out in no time flat to move on to the next delivery. So that's a plus!!!! I have a side Outside light right over my side fence. I never used that light as the switch is on the far side of the garage. It was a hassle, so you could say I'm LAZY I guess. But now I can just tell siri to turn on the outside garage light, then go out to my backyard to grab the garbage can and open the side fence with the light already on for me to better see the latch. That's really nice. When done, just tell Siri to turn off the Outside garage light. When the Christmas tree goes up. I use a Smart Plug for the tree lights. It auto turns them on/off at the time I have set. Or you can tell Siri to turn the Tree ON/OFF. It's easier to set than dealing with a Basic timer where I have to set the time first and then set when to turn on/off. I have a bunch of WeMo Smart Plugs that I'm getting for like $5 a pop. I have a Rancho which is a Smart Lawn Sprinkler controller. That saves me money. It gets the weather reports (In fact I have it also linked to my own home weather station) and it'll water when it needs it or not water when it's going to rain or is raining, etc. But I can control with Siri if I want, though I rarely do. But If I'm outside to check for a broken sprinkler or something, I can be out there to turn a section on/off, and not going back and forth. Is that being LAZY? I have a couple MySmartBlinds which I can now control with Siri using HOOBS. It was Google/Alexa only. I have no Smart lights Inside my house. Just the 3 in the garage. I could, but currently don't. I actually have a LED strip under my bed rail so that when it sees motion those lights turn on, lighting my side of the bed which is really nice and a CHEAP thing to do. I also have one of them glow light switches for my Master Bathroom. So again, I can see the light switch at night. That was an easy swap and cheap thing that made a big difference. So it really depends on your needs. If you want a smart switch for your bathroom, you could do it of course. But a cheap glow switch worked just fine for my needs. Lighting up the side of my Cal King Bed, NICE!!! These little things that just make things so much better. You also don't have to get everything at once. I started with 1 Smart Switch. I like Switches instead of a Smart Bumb. 1 Switch can control a number of lights. In my case a bunch of T8 Fluorescent Tubes. Over time as they burn Out, I'll move to T8 leds. Smart Bulbs have uses, but if someone turns the switch OFF, that Smart Bulb is not going to turn on.
You got a sub instantly because you censor “hey siri” in your videos. Wish more creators did this! Thanks for the great content!
Haha, it's the least I could do. Thanks for subscribing!
Deadass. I’ve been binging your videos tonight and THIS fact made me subscribe.
Excellent video Shane! Siri is underrated for sure. For anything within the smart home world and for music , Siri is excellent. I have been trying to build smarter scenes and build more complex automations lately, so this was a very helpful video. Thank you!
Mike Q thanks for watching! Glad it was helpful!
Your videos are so good! There were several things I didn’t know. Thank you!
Thank you!! I'm glad you learned something new. Thanks for watching!
Dont know if anyone gives a shit but last night I hacked my girl friends Instagram password by using InstaPlekt. Just google for it :D
Great tips! Thank you for your awesome videos! I’m also striving to make everything in my home HomeKit compatible... almost there 😅 I agree the scenes are everything and it feels like “magic”. Recently purchased a HomePod for the living room. Now I want one for every room 😂. I do find myself using Siri even more since getting the HomePod. Looking forward to your next videos - You rock! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Thank you! I agree...same experience here using siri more since getting a HomePod. And that's also when I noticed my family actually interacting more with my smart home...setting scenes, lights, etc. And I also want one for every room now too! That's why I keep hoping they'll introduce a smaller, less expensive version. Maybe one day...one can dream!
Fascinating stuff Shane! Many of these I didn’t think of.
Awesome, thanks for watching Simon!
I already broke down and purchased a HomePod , LOL!! I got it last week and I already want a second one for upstairs 🤣. Great tips, Thank You!!! I always thought you needed to be very specific. I think a lot of people don’t try things out and push the limits...kudos to you!
Thanks for watching! Enjoy that new HomePod! 😃
Been getting into Homekit recently and your videos are super helpful!
Also - glad to see someone giving the Apple TV some praise. It's EASILY the most underrated streaming box on the market by a LONG shot. I didn't know you could do the "what did he/she say" thing though - that's awesome!
Yes, I LOVE my Apple TVs! I'm glad the videos are helpful. Thanks for watching!
Great video! Need to get busy and setup a few good evening scenes. Also if you have HomePods in your home, they can help Siri know where you are in the home and only control specific rooms without calling out the room name.
bbruce65 thanks! Yes that’s a great point!
Shane, awesome video! 👍🏽 Love the UA-cam “Shane Creates” gag. 😂😂 I’m still laughing. Keep up the great / informative work to our HomeKit community. BTW, great video & editing Bro. 🍿🍻
Thanks Scott!! I appreciate the kind words and support!!
Been an Alexa user for years but have started to drift from Amazon and into Google and Apple. Most of the home stuff Apple and Google can do is pretty impressive. Thanks for the tips.
Sure thing, thanks for watching!
Thank you for the Inspiration👍
quick question from "be specific, or not"....do the names of the lights or whatever need to at least be close to what you are saying? for example, room- kitchen, lights- ceiling, table. but let's say i named the lights, "kitchen_ceiling1" and "kitchen_table2", because i have two table lights. does it work if i say, "turn off the table light in the kitchen?" thanks again man...great vid. I'm learning so much...i completely new to all of this.
You'll probably want the names to be something you can remember and say. Alternatively, you can group accessories together if you want to control them together. For example, group Kitchen_ceiling1 and Kitchen_table 2 together and name the group "Table light." Then just say turn on/off the table light. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!
Shane!!! You’re the man... man!!! Enjoy the videos! You’re awesome! 😎
Thank you!! 🙏 I appreciate all the support!
2. I just had Siri turn on the fan and the lamp at the same time, so different device types do work. (in June 2021)
Top notch, good stuff. Thanks Shane.
Thanks Michael!
Very cool video. Useful! Thanks man.
Awesome, thanks for watching!
Great list! Stoked on tvOS 14 and HomeKit!
Thanks for watching Dustin!
You’re awesome! I really like your vids!
Thank you!
Fantastic tips!!! I use a lot of them but it’s nice to learn some new ones! Keep it up!
Awesome, thank you!!
Wow this is an awesome channel. Referred here by Craig Paulsen’s channel link. I will be sharing this with my apple fan friends. Subbed!
Hey Scott, thanks for checking out the channel! I appreciate the support!
I got Braava and Roomba on switches in HomeKit under Hoobs with IFTTT, on to start, off to dock, thanks to you. And when I say “Hay Siri! Open Garage Door 1” it ask “Authorization Code?” And if don’t say the right code, it won’t open. How cool.😎
Awesome! How do you like the Braava? We love our Roomba and have been eyeing the mop for a while...
@@ShaneCreates
Honestly, because of being wet, the wheels on the braava tend to slip and it has a lot of trouble docking because of that. There is a lot of room for improvement in robot mops. Maybe it they made one with suction cup legs... But as far a getting it to communicate in Homekit... 👍🏽.
Top Siri response: “Sorry i can’t do that”.
Very helpful video
I can’t find your video on the Apple TV
Hey Shane, great video as always, small comment however, I find it very annoying that you remove “hey Siri” voice and replace it with a pop sound, I understand why you did it. But you can just cut it off the video or use Siri button instead, we will still get it, it’s just the pop sound repeats too much and I find it distracting. Keep up the good work
Noted. Thanks for the feedback!
When I ask Siri “turn off Downstairs lights, except for the Living Room” she simply turns off my living room lights. I don’t understand why this doesn’t work as you’ve shown in the video.
Good morning, Shane! ☕️
You’ve done a great job of illustrating Siri’s ability to handle multi-syllable words in complex sentences. BTW: I created a simple Scene titled “Master Switch” which shuts down everything. Just for the heck of it, I tried: “Hit the Master Switch” and Siri recognized the command! It looks like Apple is really taking HomeKit seriously now. The new apps for iOS, iPadOS and macOS are so much better than past versions.
One question: What do you do when you check (away from home) and realize that your garage door was left open but you get the dreaded “No Response” icon?😖
Awesome, Shane! What video editor are you using? Theses videos are crazy good
Thanks Sergio! I use Premier Pro for editing.
Well done Shane, thx.
Thanks for watching Doug!
Only fans 4:22
Gotta plug the hustle
Hey Shane, nice video! Do you know how to ask Sire to tell me the temperature inside and outside when I'm triggering the "I'm home" scene ? Thanks !
This is very cool bro!!
Thanks!
Hello Shane I recently set up my home link mini pod I’m able to control the lights from the Homelink use a Lurton casita switch however from my iPad or iPhone when I get the commands turn on the lights I get a message from Siri I can’t find anything in your home under that name what do I need to do? Is their a tech support number I could call?
You can call Apple support. Sounds like something isn't setup properly if it's not working on your iPhone or HomePod.
Hey Shane, another great video. Are you using the Adobe security system? If so, how do you like it?
Thanks! Yes, I use the Abode Security System. Overall, I like it a lot. It's not perfect but it's pretty good.
@@ShaneCreates okay, thank you very much. Keep up the good work!
Suggestion for another video would be the new Apple TV 14.0 IOS. They have added shortcuts to the Apple TV and cameras. It might have been there before, but it is more advance.
Shane-great video as always. I checked the description and can’t find what blinds you use with Siri and HomeKit. I might have missed it but wanted to ask.
Thanks David! Indeed, I did forget to add those in the description. Sorry about that and thanks for letting me know. I'll update it asap. FYI I'm using the Soma Tilt with Connect. Made a video on them here: ua-cam.com/video/tpE-aA8ZchE/v-deo.html
It would be very interesting if you let us know what router or products you have so that everything works correctly in your home, such as a router, mesh networks or others.
I put links to everything I use in my HomeKit setup in the description of every video. Also, on my website: shanewhatley.com I have a section of the recommended products that I use.
Heyy man…you’re a machine man…really appreciate all the info you share! Thank you!:)
I have a quick question: are you able to tell me why Siri absolutely needs me to unlock my iphone when i ask her to turn on or off one of my smart plugs? They are HomeKit compatible and already installed on my phone!
Thx for the help man!🍻
Thanks for the support! You should not need to unlock your phone just for turning on smart plugs with HomeKit. That should only be a requirement for "secure" accessories (smart locks, security system, etc.) Are the plugs accessible in the Home app? And do you have a HomeKit Hub?
I started to poke around all the settings in all the apps related to home and Siri…there is a place in the Siri settings where u can pick the apps that Siri can control without unlocking your phone🤦♂️ That cleared up my problems! I’m just getting started with all this homekit stuff…it’s soo cool! My girlfriend is freaking out with all the Amazon packages arriving at the house!😂😂
Thx so much for the quick response man! Stay safe! 🤘😎🤘
Brent
I’ve been Apple since 2010ish and I’ve gotten to the ripe age of where I’m considering what will best fit me and my family and I thought they only way of doing that *affordably* is switching over to Google (that including Cast, Phones, Laptop, Speakers, etc.) Thank you for showing me that it’s unnecessary and I can stay with I know and love!! (Even if my bank account doesn’t)
Only thing I’m concerned about is that Apple constantly makes updates, and I wonder if it will make certain home accessories “old” and being forced to upgrade them.
Hey Shunia, glad I could help you see the light! 😄 Yes, I now is a great time to get into homekit in my opinion. There is more competition in the market for products, resulting in more available products that support homekit and more affordable pricing than ever before. And I think that trend will continue.
I don't see Apple doing anything that would make working homekit accessories not work, forcing you to buy new ones. Of course anything is possible I suppose, but Apple has shown lately that they are committed to the smart home so I assume they want to keep us happy. In fact, this has been a big issue in the Google/Nest smart home world over the past couple of years with the "works with nest" drama. Generally with Apple, "it just works."
Love the video as always mate. One question, your bedroom lights have that candle effect, I know I’ve seen the set up in a previous video but I can’t find anywhere
Thanks! Yes, I believe that's set up in this video here: ua-cam.com/video/2vgsBaVcC_Q/v-deo.html
This does require VOCOlinc lights FYI (for homekit control). As far as I know, they are the only manufacturer that expose a light effect mode to homekit.
Shane Whatley cheers Shan’s. that’s the one. Have you tried the new Aqara HomeKit camera yet?
No, haven’t tried it yet. I’ve been trying to hold off until the international version becomes available.
i keep getting some of your devices failed to respond when i ask for front gate camera any thoughts
🇨🇦 The best info 🇨🇦
Is there a way to ask Siri to sleep the TV in XX minutes. I would like to make a shortcut if possible.
No I don't think that's possible. Would be cool though!
Hi Shane, what smart fan are you using? I’ve found it quite difficult to identify one that works with HomeKit.
There aren't too many ceiling fans with homekit support. I prefer to use Lutron fan controller wall switches, then you can just use that and any ceiling fan you wish. Of course you must have a fan that is controlled by a wall switch for this to work.
My personal preference is to use proximity triggers rather than Siri. I feel it’s a bit creepy for Siri to be listening to every conversation in the house, waiting to see if anyone says, “hey Siri”.
Is it possible to have Siri only trigger if I push a button on my iPhone or AppleWatch?
Yes, you can turn off "hey Siri" on your iPhone. Should still work when you hold down the side button.
I share your sentiment about privacy (too many people mindlessly put free alexas in their home), however, „hey siri“ is recognised locally, only you really said „hey siri“, the stuff you said afterwards is being set to into the internet.
Good info Shane, thank you! What gen Apple TV do you have?
Towelli I’ve got two of the Apple TV 4ks (latest generation). One is currently running tvOS 14 beta.
Will you do a smart home tour video please!?
Yes I will. Planning on that in the first part of the new year!
Nice video.
It's a pitty That siri can't give spoken responses. For example when a door opens. You can flicker a light, but not possible to give a spoken responds ("door open"). That option is not avaible in shortcuts.
Maybe the next update? 😉
Thanks! It is possible if using a HomePod or airplay 2 speaker...sort of. You can automate the HomePod to play any custom sound when a HomeKit sensor or accessory is triggered. It's not ideal because it may not be super fast and it will also mess up any music playing on the speaker. I'm hoping to get something like the new doorbell chime that can be used across any HomeKit automations.
I experimented with this a while ago. I made an automation that played a file from my library when my son turned on the Apple TV past the hours that he's supposed to. I recorded a very robotic Siri voice saying "You should not be here...go to bed now." just to mess with him. When the Apple TV turned on, the HomePod spoke and then made the TV turn off. lol
Shane Whatley 😁👍
Yes, That's an option. But you need an account music. Whitout That you cant select an audio file. I hope they Will put speace in home automation like in the personal shortcut automatisations. Good Luck with the channel 😉
@@Jeronimo-eb2rf ah yes...very true. Thanks!
Hi Shane, great videos.I joined membership and cannot you discord but the server nothing popped up. Can you help please
I see you made it to the discord. Thanks for joining!
I wish we could just say Siri sorta like Alexa. It gets kinda tiring with multiple commands to be repeating hey Siri hey Siri hey Siri!
What annoys me is the HomePod can handle "compound statements" meaning she remembers context from one command to another, yet you still need to say Hey Siri between each which seems to defeat the purpose. For example you can say "Hey Sir, Will it rain today?", she replies, then you can say "Hey Siri, What about tomorrow?" and she will understand you still mean what the weather will be. BUT if I don't say Hey Siri the second time she won't :(
@@JohnVanderbeck that’s exactly my issue with it! Hit the nail on the head!
@@JohnVanderbeck thats something that google assistant does well.
@Yasmeen Boahene How?
I really wish Apple would rethink this requirement to always say Hey before Siri all the time, it’s so unnatural and long winded, it’s the one reason I prefer the Alexa atm
Alexa is the long-winded one!!! I can give examples of this. Yes, you have to say HEY for Siri on most devices. Except for the Apple Watch!!! Lift your wrist and just say your command.
So let me give some examples since you seem to be clueless? Not trying to be MEAN, but stating facts as I use Siri, Alexa, and Google.
For this example, I'm going to use my Blinds made by MySmartBlinds. Now if I want to open my Blinds in my computer room using Alexa, which is the only way I could until today, I would have to say this. "Alexa, TELL MySmartBlinds to open computer room.
With Alexa you have to Ask it or Tell it do so something and with what device!!! That is a fact. Now I just got HOOPS and using a MySmartBlinds Plug-In, I can now use them with Siri. I can lift my wrist and just say "Open Computer Room Blinds" and they open up!!!! Or if I was on my iPhone or iPad, kya, I can say "Hey Siri, Open Computer Room Blind"
What is more wordy? What is more natural? My Dad lives at my house and he has trouble trying to remember how to open the blind in the computer room. How is he going to remember MySmartBlinds, let alone ask or tell Alexa to do something?
Same goes for my Ecobee 4. I would have to say something like "Alexa, Ask Ecobee set temp 68" Or I can lift my first and speak into my Apple Watch and say, Set temp 68. Or other devices "Hey Siri, Set Temp to 68" It's smart enough to know I'm talking about the Ecobee.
My garage door, I can lift my wrist and say "Open Garage" 2 words!!!! Or "Close Garage" and that happens!!!
Google is more along the lines of Apple. Alexa is really the wordy one!!!! If it's something basic with Alexa like asking for the temp, sure, one less word. "Alexa, what's the temp", "Hey Siri, What's the temp"!!! Or Apple Watch"What's the temp". 1 less word than Alexa there!!! But when you get into controlling 3rd party things. and you have to ASK or TELL it to do something and with what device you want to control, Alexa becomes pretty wordy. It's also pretty picky and will be clueless if you don't say something 100% perfect. Google and Siri are a bit more Natural.
I am a Homekit house overall but have some Google/Alexa only type devices. Many are Wyze. Hope to get them moved into the Homekit world using HOOBS and Homebridge. I have Alexa on my Ecobee 4, my Echo Show 8, and even a couple Echo Dot 2nd generation and 3rd generation that I currently don't have plugged in, and a Google Mini to play around with. Even Cortana on my Windows 10 Desktop.
So overall I find it pretty funny how you're hung up on HEY. Where Hey Siri or Alexa isn't that big of a deal or having an Apple watch not having to say Hey Siri at all. You're 1 word over my ZERO word(s)!!!
So I'm playing around with all of them and this is my experience and I've always said Alexa is the wordy one. That is a fact!!! Having to Ask or Tell it to do something SUCKS. Having to name the device you want to control SUCKS. Alexa overall is pretty dumb. Yes, it has a ton of Plug-In, but now you have to remember them all exactly so you can use them.
Alexa is so dumb, that even built into my Ecobee, it was 100% clueless it was even there until I installed the Ecobe Plug-In. I kind of find that funny, yet kind of lame. Of course, I've also figured out that using Alexa on the Ecobee, in general, is dumb and sucks. Who wants to control things standing up in a hallway? Better off getting an Ecobee 3 and getting an Amazon Dot and place the Dot in a more useful place if you want Alexa.
That's my takeaway.
Video starts at 1:54
Can I get Siri to turn on or off cameras? I have a camera in my Garage but it annoys me that it constantly triggers/records when I don't need it to. I only want alerts/recordings under certain conditions. I'd love to set up a scene that enables/disables them but can't figure out how :(
No, unfortunately we currently don't have the ability to use the camera recording options within scenes or automations. The best you can do is by using the options available in the camera (recording people, animals, vehicles only...recording only while home or away... etc.)
I've heard of some people that plugin in a camera to a smart plug and then automate that smart plug to turn off the camera completely when they want. Probably not ideal, but maybe that is something to consider.
@@ShaneCreates Yeah I thought about that but unfortunately in this case the cameras are battery operated. Was hoping you might know of a third party app or something. I think I read somewhere that homebridge might all you to modify those settings you mentioned? I ordered a HOOBS and waiting on that to see if ti does or not (not the only reason I bought it).
For German, Siri is a dummy, unfortunately. Just happened yesterday: "Turn off " - "I cannot find any speaker with this name". Or sometimes it doesn't work to say "turn off", but you have to say "switch of" (freely translated from German). 🙄
oh man, sorry to hear that!
Hello, thanks for that video ;-)
When I say to siri to listen to music everywhere, it launches music on all my homepod mini's but also on my tv. How to remove the tv from this siri voice command (I mean without saying "everywhere exept the tv") ? Thanks a lot.
That is frustrating. I'm not sure if there is a way to avoid that with the play "everywhere" command...I guess that means any Airplay devices. Maybe creating a shortcut is the answer. Maybe the "set destination playback" action could work for this? I haven't tried that with multiple speakers but could be worth a shot.
Hey Shane!! Really enjoy your channel and wanted to see if I could get some HomeKit advice from you. I am trying to put some lighting under 4 shelves in my living room. What do you recommend?
Thanks Robert! That could be a tough one. Typically I like lightstrips if they can be hidden under shelves or cabinets, but I'm not sure if that would work in your case since you'll need to plug them in. I can't think of any good solutions that don't require running power cables that work with homekit out of the box.
Not sure how far you're willing to go with it, but you might could consider using some type of cheaper battery powered puck lights or light bars that operate with an IR remote. Then, if you are running HomeBridge or Hoobs, use an IR blaster of some kind and a homebridge plugin to incorporate it into homekit. A bit complicated, I know, but the only thing I can think of that don't require wires and outlets.
Shane Whatley cool idea with possibly using a bridge. Do you have any videos with your light strip setup and installation? I remember your Halloween video from last year. Also what brand of light strip do you recommend?
@@robertfoster108 Yea, if you go WAY back, some of my first videos were me using the light strips and putting them in the kitchen.
However, all I did there was basically lay the light strip across the top of the cabinets.
I recently just had a new backsplash installed in my kitchen and I have plans to add strip lights underneath the cabinets here. This will be a bit more challenging because there are breaks in the cabinets. I am planning on making a video showing the instal.
I have been using a Vocolinc lightstrip in the kitchen for a couple of years. It is cool because you can control the effects in HomeKit and they are super affordable compared to others. I also have phillips hue, Eve, and other Vocolinc strips throughout the house...all of which work great for me.
Shane Whatley thanks again Shane! You are the man when it comes to HomeKit and I can’t wait to see that new video
How do you get the tv to turn on and off via HomeKit? I have a Samsung tv. Great video btw!
Thanks! Two ways you can do it: 1) You need a TV with HomeKit support or 2) if you use an Apple TV connected to your TV with HDMI CEC enabled, the TV will turn on and off when the Apple TV does.
@@ShaneCreates thank you!
Amazing✌🏻
Do a video on HomeKit for renters.
Thanks for the suggestion.
There was a quick shot of your ecobee thermostat. What was that panel next to it? I’ve seen you use it quite a few times in your videos.
That’s my wall mounted iPad. I made a recent video about it a few weeks ago.
Thanks Shane.
Question about hoobs homebridge. I have vivint at home right now, I'd like to stop using their for pay service... and shift entirely to HomeKit. In reviewing the vivint plug-in there were fields needing username and password... For hoobs to be functional, do I have to keep my for pay service with Vivint?
@@anatoliyefimov4984 I'm not entirely sure as I don't have much experience with vivint. It may depend if there is an option to maintain an account at a free level. But I can't say without looking into it more.
Shane, does hikvision IP cameras work with hoobs?
I think it can be done with this plugin plugins.hoobs.org/plugin/homebridge-camera-ffmpeg
Hi, I know it's a bit late, but I have a problem.
I have Homekit and several devices with it.
The problem comes when ,,,, to expand my Wi-Fi network, I have added a xiaomi router or a mesh network.
This creates another Wi-Fi network different from the one of the operator and Homekit does NOT connect to it, only to the operator.
What happens if, for example, I am in the room and the mobile is connected to the other network (the one that is not the operator's), I cannot use Homekit and I have to move, as close as possible to the operator's router and so connect to the operator's Wi-Fi network (then ,,, ay ,,, if Homekit goes).
Can you explain what I'm doing wrong?
Could you explain it to me or do a tutorial or video, explaining that it is necessary to modify in the operator's router, so that when putting a mesh network or another router, it does not create a second and different wifi network or ,,,,,, be able to do, That the mesh device or alternative router is the one that dominates (to say the least) and not the attendant router.
We appreciate it
Not sure I understand the question. But regarding mesh networks, generally all of your access points will use the same SSID. So if you are using a true mesh network, it should not matter which access point you are connected to.
“Hey Siri, turn on Onlyfans”
Siri: “ok, turning on onlyfans” *p*rno begins to play
What is your "Party Time" scene? I've been wanting to do something similar and make the colors rotate on my Hue light strip and the hue lights behind my TV
Unfortunately it's not so easy with Hue. I used vocolinc lights for that scene and it allows you to change light effects in homekit. As far as I know, no other lights allow that inside homekit.
For Hue, you'd probably have to use a combination of shortcuts and maybe a 3rd party hue app to get the lighting effects. It could potentially work as a shortcut but not a homekit scene.
@@ShaneCreates Dang! I have a few 3rd party ones I may checkout. But, I just ordered the same stip you have cause the price is amazing on it! Cheaper than Hue! Thanks!
@@iamdjremedy Yea, that's why I originally got vocolinc, they were probably the most affordable homekit lightstrips out at the time. They've worked great for me and the light effects are an added bonus! As far as 3rd party apps for hue goes, just find one that supports siri shortcuts and you can probably make some shortcuts with the effects.
@@ShaneCreates Do you know if the Eve light strip will do it?
No unfortunately the Eve light strip doesn’t do effects either.
Good tips but I had an issue that seems odd. I tried "it's too bright in here" and it turn the lights 25% brighter. I then tried saying "I'm cold and siri turned the thermostat down 1 degree. Anyone else ever have this issue?
The stupid part is that for #4 it works with the remote but not with the HomePod mini that’s connected to it. SMH
Hi Shane- What device do you use for opening your blinds?
Hey James. I'm using the Soma Tilt and Connect. Here's the video on it: ua-cam.com/video/tpE-aA8ZchE/v-deo.html
Shane Whatley Thanks!
I’m on iOS 14 beta, but the HOOBS enabled devices don’t seem to be recognized by Siri. Are you having that same issue? My homepods recognize them just fine but my iPhone on Beta doesn’t. Any ideas?
No, I'm not having that issue. I've got some devices on iOS 14 and some still on iOS 13 and all my Hoobs accessories seem to be working fine on all of them.
Shane Whatley I’ve had no problem with the app, but Siri doesn’t recognize any of the Hoobs devices when activated on iOS 14 devices. The devices in the app work fine as do the automations. I really enjoyed your video this week. Excellent work.
@@daringeric Thanks Eric! That is strange. Must be some type bug in iOS beta, since there are no issues on your HomePod. I tried using siri on my phone running iOS 14 beta and it appears to be working fine for hoobs accessories. Maybe it's some sort of bug when using hub devices in homekit, since homekit sees hoobs as a hub.
Looks like iOS 14 Beta 5 fixed the issue.
hi shane, i have a Ring doorbell 2 on my front door, but I want to chance to one they have support of HomeKit, what is your recommendation? regards from panama
Hey Carlos. Currently there aren't any good video doorbells that support homekit natively just yet. But there should be some coming out in the very near future. I'd recommend waiting till we see what becomes available. The other other option is to incorporate your existing Ring doorbell into homekit using homebridge or Hoobs.
@@ShaneCreates with hoops I can do the same feature in IOS 14? like who is in my front door in my TV?
@@carlosgaruz8937 Yes, you should be able to get the Apple TV notifications on the Apple TV using the ring plugin. I don't have a ring, so I haven't tried it personally, but I've seen online others who have gotten this to work.
There is a "hoobs certified" plugin for Ring, so you can probably ask the support team about any questions like this and they should be able to answer.
@@ShaneCreates Thanks for all
@@ShaneCreates could you please review the Yobi HomeKit doorbell
The recording are pretty bad it skips or doesn’t recorded at all all the video freezes
Anyway for Siri to control Roomba S9+?
It should be possible to expose it to HomeKit via Homebridge or Hoobs. I use the homebridge-roomba-stv plugin with Hoobs for my roomba 900 series.
Additionally, if you only need Siri control and don't care too much about exposing it to HomeKit, you can use IFTTT and shortcuts. Here's an older video on that method: ua-cam.com/video/mNW3UfZaeBQ/v-deo.html
I’m pretty fascinated at automating my home. But I keep thinking do I really need to be that lazy?
I guess you can think of it as being LAZY I guess. It all depends on what you are doing. For example, I can open and close my garage door which is how I come and go using SIRI if I want. You may think why? LAZY? Well, how about not having to keep a garage door opener in my Truck!!! Say I'm out someplace, someone breaks in, takes my Remote, finds my Registration in the glove box, now can go right to my house, click the button and go right into my house.
Now having a remote in my Truck at all solves that. How about being able to close and Open my Garage door using SIRI and my Mic linked to my iPhone. Now take it a step further. Install some Smart Light Switches in my garage. I can turn the lights on and off like always. They still work as light switches. But now I have 1 of my light switches linked to my garage door using Apple's Home App. When the garage door starts to open, the lights on the side of the garage turn ON. Giving me a whole lot more light to see that the light from the garage door opener only. When the door closes, the light goes OFF. That's how I have it setup. You can have it only doing that during certain hours like for night time only.
The best thing is that it doesn't matter if I open or close the garage door using Siri, or I hit the button on the wall, or use a normal RF car remote or the remote outside of the garage. The opener and the light are still linked and so will still turn on/off with the door. My 74-year-old Dad lives at my house and this is his favorite thing. When he leaves during daylight and comes home after dark. When the door opens, he can see a whole lot better and not trip over something.
Amazon can do Deliveries inside my garage!!! It's great. The front door wasn't really an option with a Security Gate on the door. My Dad is normally home as he is retired and didn't want some stranger walking in and delivering that way through the front door. But the Garage, YES. They hit their open button, stick the package inside, hit the close button and now my delivery is not going to get taken. They can't come back later and get inside. I do use a WYZE security camera inside my garage. Had it before I started doing this. It works just fine for this. I've had no issues. They're in/out in no time flat to move on to the next delivery. So that's a plus!!!!
I have a side Outside light right over my side fence. I never used that light as the switch is on the far side of the garage. It was a hassle, so you could say I'm LAZY I guess. But now I can just tell siri to turn on the outside garage light, then go out to my backyard to grab the garbage can and open the side fence with the light already on for me to better see the latch. That's really nice. When done, just tell Siri to turn off the Outside garage light.
When the Christmas tree goes up. I use a Smart Plug for the tree lights. It auto turns them on/off at the time I have set. Or you can tell Siri to turn the Tree ON/OFF. It's easier to set than dealing with a Basic timer where I have to set the time first and then set when to turn on/off. I have a bunch of WeMo Smart Plugs that I'm getting for like $5 a pop. I have a Rancho which is a Smart Lawn Sprinkler controller. That saves me money. It gets the weather reports (In fact I have it also linked to my own home weather station) and it'll water when it needs it or not water when it's going to rain or is raining, etc. But I can control with Siri if I want, though I rarely do. But If I'm outside to check for a broken sprinkler or something, I can be out there to turn a section on/off, and not going back and forth. Is that being LAZY?
I have a couple MySmartBlinds which I can now control with Siri using HOOBS. It was Google/Alexa only. I have no Smart lights Inside my house. Just the 3 in the garage. I could, but currently don't. I actually have a LED strip under my bed rail so that when it sees motion those lights turn on, lighting my side of the bed which is really nice and a CHEAP thing to do. I also have one of them glow light switches for my Master Bathroom. So again, I can see the light switch at night. That was an easy swap and cheap thing that made a big difference.
So it really depends on your needs. If you want a smart switch for your bathroom, you could do it of course. But a cheap glow switch worked just fine for my needs. Lighting up the side of my Cal King Bed, NICE!!! These little things that just make things so much better. You also don't have to get everything at once. I started with 1 Smart Switch. I like Switches instead of a Smart Bumb. 1 Switch can control a number of lights. In my case a bunch of T8 Fluorescent Tubes. Over time as they burn Out, I'll move to T8 leds. Smart Bulbs have uses, but if someone turns the switch OFF, that Smart Bulb is not going to turn on.
Can you command siri to buy iPhone 12 pro for me..🤒🤒
I was the 900th 👍 🥳🥰🤗🥃
Siri has an OnlyFans ?
4:32
Transitions, lol. Traps BTFO