At GearBrain, we have tested many smart home security systems ranging from self-monitoring DIY security cameras like Canary Flex to professionally installed and monitored systems like Vivint. One of our favorite systems is abode systems. Their DIY installed smart home systems is very effective in helping users not only keep their home safe but can help make it smarter with integrations to other best of breed connected devices. Today, abode's ecosystem just got healthier and more robust with their announcement of Apple HomeKit compatibility.

Apple HomeKit is one of the leading platforms users can use to have all their smart home devices work seamlessly and be controlled from one app. If you have an abode iota all-in-one smart home security solution, you can easily activate this integration now. HomeKit is available as an update to iota home security systems enabling control through the Apple Home app and Siri on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and HomePod. Abode's traditional Gen 2 and Gen 1 security systems will also add HomeKit compatibility in the near future.

Apple HomeKit app can now control your abode iota hub,abode

iota, abode's award-winning, all-in-one smart home security system features a built-in HD camera, motion sensor, two-way audio, and Wi-Fi connectivity. With HomeKit, Apple users can now add their abode iota system directly into the Home app on their iPhone or iPad to control their smart home from a single app. In addition, all abode-branded motion, door, and window sensors can be added to the Home app when connected to the abode iota gateway.

With HomeKit compatibility, users can arm or disarm the iota system and receive notifications of motion events triggered by abode motion sensors as well as open or close events triggered by abode door or window sensors. Additionally, abode users can quickly and easily access a live stream of their home from iota's built-in 1080p streaming camera right through the Home app and ask Siri for the status of their system.

"As the only HomeKit -enabled DIY home security system, we are excited to give Apple customers an option that works with their preferred interface," said Chris Carney, abode CEO & cofounder. "abode envisions a smart home that is safe and accessible to anyone and by continuing to integrate with major ecosystems and brands, we are giving our growing community the ability to have a home security system that meets their exact needs. With this integration, abode users have the convenience, privacy, and security that comes with HomeKit, plus the peace of mind provided by abode's security and professional monitoring options."

Once added to the Home app, users can also use automations to create smart home rules that include their abode security system. For remote access to the home, users must have an Apple TV (4^th generation or later), HomePod, or iPad running iOS 10 or later at home. Through the Home app, abode users can add their compatible security devices to their existing groups by room and configure their smart home to their preferences.

To start, abode is adding HomeKit compatibility to iota, the all-in-one security solution with plans to add HomeKit support for Gen 1 and Gen 2 systems so that all abode customers can use it with their Apple devices.

abode iota all-in-one smart home security system now works with Apple HomeKit.GearBrain

An abode software update going live today gives all current iota customers the ability to enroll their system into the Home app on a compatible Apple device, and users who purchase iota kits going forward can easily add HomeKit through the abode app.

GearBrain likes this announcement and thinks it a good move. We are big fans of interoperability and making integrations easy and effective for consumers. This new integration by abode with Apple HomeKit rounds out their robust ecosystem. They are now one of the few smart home security systems that have integrations with all smart speaker assistant platforms. They also have integrations with smart lights, smart locks and garage door controllers. If you are in the market for a DIY smart home security system and have a smart speaker assistant, you have to consider abode. They will help you build and control your smart home security system via an app or voice depending on your preference. Not many systems can do this today.