Apple Adds New Features for HomeKit and Home App in iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia

TapTechNews June 11th news, although HomeKit and the Home App didn't get much attention in the WWDC24 keynote, Apple still added some related practical new features for iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia.

Custom access rights allows users to manage when and how guests use HomeKit-equipped smart home devices such as garage door openers, security systems and door locks. Users can create a guest schedule and specify specific devices that guests can use, thereby limiting the time period for guests to access the house. It should be noted that this feature requires the use of a home hub device.

TapTechNews noticed that for iPhone or Apple Watch users equipped with UWB chips, and UWB-enabled smart door locks, Apple launched the Quick Mode, allowing users to unlock automatically when approaching the front door without the need for manual operation of the device.

In addition, Apple will add support for robotic vacuum cleaners later this year. By then, the Home App will support the core functions of the robotic vacuum cleaner, such as controlling power on/off, cleaning mode, vacuuming, mopping and charging status. Users can also integrate the robotic vacuum cleaner into automated operations and scenes, and control it through Siri voice commands.

It is worth noting that Apple will also add a power usage integration feature in the Home App, but initially it is only available to some customers of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company in the United States. This feature allows users to view the home power usage situation and electricity tariff package in the Home App. The power usage integration feature is expected to go online later in 2024, and Apple also plans to add support for more power service providers in the future.

Apple WWDC24 Developer Conference Keynote Topic