The Best Smart Home Devices of 2025 & The Fall of Roomba
In this exciting episode, we dive into the most popular tech trends of the year, focusing on the rise of iRobot and the challenges faced by American companies in pursuing innovative strategies. We explore the booming robotic lawnmower category and highlight Aqara's impressive achievements with camera technology. Join us for a dynamic discussion filled with insights and forward-thinking perspectives.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekitCopilot Money: Limited-time: Get 26% off your first year when you sign up at copilot.money and use coupon code HOMEKIT! **(new users only, web only)HomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showMy favorite smart home devices of 2025 (video)Dolby Flex Connect system from LGSamsung SmartThings announces Matter 1.5 supportThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
29 Dec 202556min
Resideo & Honeywell Home Catch-Up with Scott Harkins, Plus New Smart Plugs & Thread Milestone
In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew welcomes Scott Harkins, SVP of Sales at Resideo, to discuss the latest in smart home technology. As they gear up for CES, they delve into the advancements of Honeywell Home's new smart thermostat and the growing adoption of Thread technology. Scott shares insights on Resideo's journey, the impact of Matter on smart home integration, and the future of connected home devices. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the evolution of smart home solutions and what lies ahead.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT25 for a $25 credit towards your membership.Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekitCleanMyMac: Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code HOMEKIT for 20% off at clnmy.com/HOMEKITINSIDERHomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showThread milestoneMikrotik haP Be3 MediaAnnouncement video for haP be3Homey Self-Hosted ServerAqara Smart Outlet H2Honeywell Home X8SThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
22 Dec 202553min
August Co-Founder Jason Johnson Launches Doma Home For Future of Smart Homes
In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara is joined by Jason Johnson, co-founder of August Smart Lock, to discuss his new venture, DOMA Home. They explore the evolution of smart home technology, the challenges of access control, and the innovative solutions DOMA Home is bringing to the market. Tune in to hear about the latest updates in smart home devices, including Apple's iOS 26.2 release, and the exciting future of smart home integration with Matter and HomeKit.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT25 for a $25 credit towards your membership.Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekitHomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showApple releases 26.2 updateApple Home Hub details leakDoma HomeShelly Matter plugEve Thermo 5th-GenPlume joins CSASmart home studyHomey Pro (2026)PawportThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
15 Dec 20251h 5min
Aqara Launches Direct Siri Integration in S1 Plus, Chamberlain Locks Down, & SwitchBot Candle Warmer Review
In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara dives into the latest smart home innovations as we approach the holiday season. From Nuki's revamped pricing model for their smart locks to Honeywell's new premium thermostat, Andrew provides insightful reviews and personal takes on these products. He also explores the exciting developments from Acara and Chamberlain, and shares his thoughts on the Anker Prime Wireless Charger and SwitchBot Candle Warmer. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the evolving smart home landscape and discover how these products can enhance your home experience.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT25 for a $25 credit towards your membership.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.Notion Agent: Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at notion.com/homekitHomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showChamberlain UpdateMatter Water ValveSwitchBot Candle WarmerAnker Prime Prime 25W Wireless ChargerAqara Matter Camera Leak (Updated - Wrong)Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
8 Dec 202545min
Matter 1.5 Cameras, Apple Smart Display Thoughts, & Nomad Tracking Card Pro Review
In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara dives into the latest updates in the smart home world, focusing on the launch of Matter 1.5 and its implications for camera support. Andrew shares insights from manufacturers like Akara and Eve, discussing their plans for integrating Matter into their products. He also highlights the new UltiCam IQ V2 from Xthings, a promising addition to the smart home ecosystem. Additionally, Andrew explores the potential of Apple's upcoming smart home display and its integration with Apple intelligence. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the future of smart home technology and some personal anecdotes about navigating power outages with smart devices.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekitSurfshark: Go to https://surfshark.com/homekit or use code homekit at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/HOMEKIT or use code HOMEKIT25 for a $25 credit towards your membership.HomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showSonoff Mini Duo 2-GangApple smart display editorialEve Thermo 4 on CSA websiteNomad Tracking Card ProXthings Matter CameraThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
1 Dec 202547min
In Depth Talk with Philips Hue Founder & Head of Technology George Yianni
In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara welcomes George Yianni, the visionary founder and CTO of Signify, Philips Hue. Dive into the fascinating journey of Philips Hue, from its groundbreaking launch with Apple to its evolution into a leader in smart lighting. Discover the latest innovations, including the MotionAware technology and the new Hue Bridge Pro, and explore how Philips Hue continues to redefine the role of lighting in our homes. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a smart home aficionado, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn how Philips Hue is lighting the way to a smarter future.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekitIncogni: Take your personal data back with Incogni! Get 60% off an annual plan at https://incogni.com/homekit and use code HOMEKIT at checkout.CleanMyMac: Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code HOMEKIT for 20% off at clnmy.com/HOMEKITINSIDERHomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showShelly Flood Gen 4Avia Smart LockMeross Presence SensorPhilips HueThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
24 Nov 20251h 11min
Cameras Officially Come to Matter with 1.5 Release -- Guest Host Chris LaPre
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 ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored 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 ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showMatter 1.5 ReleaseThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
20 Nov 202537min
Zigbee 4.0 & Suzi Sub-GHz Launch with Guest Genie Peshkova
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 ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored 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/homekitFunction 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 checkoutHomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showGenie PeshkovaAqara FP300SwitchBot Presence SensorAIDot Linkind BulbZigbee 4.0 AnnouncementSuziThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com
18 Nov 202548min
