Smart Home Insider

AppleInsider

Learn about the latest smart home news on Smart Home Insider! Host Andrew O'Hara discusses the weekly news, exclusive interviews, in-depth how-to's, smart home automations, integrating Siri Shortcuts, and reviews his recent smart home projects with an added focus on Apple Home & Matter.

  1. CSA's Nelson Henry Talks Aliro Launch: The Future of Digital Keys

    3 HR AGO

    CSA's Nelson Henry Talks Aliro Launch: The Future of Digital Keys

    In this episode of "Smart Home Insider," host Andrew is joined by guest Nelson Henry to dive into the latest developments in smart home technology. They discuss the transition from HomeKit Insider to Smart Home Insider, highlighting the new show logo by Basic Apple Guy. The conversation covers IKEA's push into smart home devices with Matter and Thread, the innovative smart nightlight by Third Reality, and the security concerns surrounding DJI's Romo vacuums. They also explore the new Aliro standard for digital keys, its implications for smart locks, and the potential for increased interoperability across devices and ecosystems. Tune in for insights on the future of smart home tech and how it impacts everyday life. Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow your host 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/homekitGusto: Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/homekit, and get three months free when you run your first payroll.HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Basic Apple GuyIKEA Matter-over-Thread video reviewThird Reality Smart Night Light-TDJI Robot Vacuum Security ExploitNew Sonos App UpdateSonos CEO Reddit InterviewZemismart Presence SensorAliro Finally LaunchesThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    57 min
  2. HomeKit Insider's Next Chapter, Apple Experience, & More with Guest Brian Tong

    23 FEB

    HomeKit Insider's Next Chapter, Apple Experience, & More with Guest Brian Tong

    Join us as we sit down with tech veteran Brian Tong to discuss the exciting rebrand of HomeKit Insider to Smart Home Insider, Apple's evolving smart home strategy, and the future of AI in consumer devices. Whether you're a smart home enthusiast, Apple aficionado, or industry watcher, this episode offers deep insights into what’s coming next. Key Topics: The story behind rebranding from HomeKit Insider to Smart Home InsiderApple's strategic moves in the smart home space, including upcoming devices and sensorsThe future of AI in consumer tech: Apple's developments, partnerships, and product ambitionsThe state of CarPlay, Apple's automotive ambitions, and the evolving auto industry landscapePrivacy and security’s role in Apple's innovation and competitive advantageSend us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow your host 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/homekitHomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Apple Experience on March 426.4 Beta featuresApple TV coming to CarPlayPodcast video supportBrian's video on Apple AI wearablesBrian Tong YouTube channelThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    1h 7m

  3. 16 FEB

    SwitchBot AI Hub, First Matter Gate Latch, & Invincible Wi-Fi

    In this episode of HomeKit Insider, Andrew O'Hara dives into the latest developments in smart home technology amidst a backdrop of frigid weather conditions. He shares personal experiences with smart home devices like Aqara doorbells and Rio Arc space heaters, highlighting their performance in extreme cold. Andrew also discusses the innovative Switchbot AI Hub, which offers local AI processing for video analysis and automation, enhancing privacy and functionality without cloud reliance. The episode covers the controversial Ring Super Bowl ad and its privacy implications, alongside a sponsorship segment on Incogni's privacy protection services. Andrew reviews new products like the Switchbot AI Hub and Eero Signal, and shares listener-submitted automation tips. The episode wraps up with a review of the SpotMinders tracking card, emphasizing its discreet design and functionality. This summary captures the essence of the episode, focusing on the blend of personal anecdotes, product reviews, and privacy discussions that engage listeners interested in smart home advancements. For your next step, consider generating a promotional post for social media to attract more listeners to this episode. Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: 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.CleanMyMac:  Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code HOMEKIT for 20% off at https://clnmy.com/HOMEKITHomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show 404 Media Ring coverageSwitchBot AI HubBulldog Gate LatchEero SignalSpotminders Tracking Card ProThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    37 min
  4. Smart Locks, Aliro, & Shared Family Living with Yale's Garrett Lovejoy

    9 FEB

    Smart Locks, Aliro, & Shared Family Living with Yale's Garrett Lovejoy

    Join us in this episode as Garrett Lovejoy, SVP at Fortune Brands and General Manager of Connected Security, shares insights into the evolving landscape of smart locks, industry standards like Matter, Thread, and UWB, and the future of intelligent home automation. Discover what’s next for connected security, design trends, and how AI is democratizing automation creation. In this episode: The impact of CES 2026 on smart home industry innovationsHow Matter, Thread, and UWB are transforming device connectivityThe role of AI in simplifying automation setup and personalizationDifferences and future plans for Yale, August, and other brands in the marketAdvances in retrofit solutions for smart blinds, shades, and other accessoriesChallenges with multi-home device management in apartments and condosEmerging smart lock technologies including UWB and AliroThe User Experience evolution with automatic unlocking and tap-based accessThe significance of design innovation and brand differentiationIndustry resilience and firmware update strategies for complex home systems Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Gusto: Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/homekit, and get three months free when you run your first payroll.Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekitHomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Multiple Apple Home garage doors in CarPlayGreat projector automation from Aqara forumSwitchBot Wooden Air PurifierYale Assure 2 Lock with MatterYale Home WebsiteThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    1h 1m
  5. Integrating Apple Home & Siri Shortcuts with Guest Matthew Cassinelli

    2 FEB

    Integrating Apple Home & Siri Shortcuts with Guest Matthew Cassinelli

    In this episode of HomeKit Insider, Andrew teams up with shortcut expert Matthew Cassinelli to delve into the world of smart home automation. They explore the evolution of shortcuts from Workflow to Apple Shortcuts, offering insights into personal and home automations within Apple HomeKit. Listeners will learn how to enhance their home setups with advanced logic, integrate APIs for custom solutions, and troubleshoot common issues. The episode also highlights future smart home interfaces, real-world automation examples, and the potential of AI in home automation. Perfect for tech enthusiasts eager to elevate their smart 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: 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.HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Matthew Cassinelli on TwitterMatthew Cassinelli consultingSonos Amp MultiAirTag 2 detailsAqara U400 Deluxe Kit at AppleThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    58 min
  6. Apple Home Hub Swivel Base, Netamto Thermostat, & Sony Cedes the TV Space

    26 JAN

    Apple Home Hub Swivel Base, Netamto Thermostat, & Sony Cedes the TV Space

    In this episode of HomeKit Insider, Andrew O'Hara is joined by Eric from Modern Day Tech to discuss the latest in smart home technology. They explore the challenges of setting up smart home devices, the evolution of Eric's YouTube channel, and the future of smart home hubs, including Apple's potential new releases. The conversation also touches on the reliability of different smart home brands and the importance of local control in smart home systems. 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 two months free when you sign up at copilot.money and use coupon code HOMEKIT! **(new users only, web only)Notion Agent: Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/homekitHomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Modern Day TechSony leaves the TV spaceApple Home Hub to swivelSmartSetup Mortise LockGoogle Home outageNetatmo Thermo lineThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    1h 8m
  7. Mega Review Episode: Aqara U400, IKEA Matter Lineup, & Govee Nugget Ice Maker Pro

    19 JAN

    Mega Review Episode: Aqara U400, IKEA Matter Lineup, & Govee Nugget Ice Maker Pro

    In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara dives into the latest smart home innovations, including an in-depth review of the U400 Smart Lock, the Govee Nugget Ice Maker Pro, and IKEA's new Matter-over-Thread lineup. Andrew shares his personal experiences from CES, discusses the exciting new features of Apple's Creator Studio, and explores the potential of AI in smart home technology. Tune in for expert insights, product reviews, and a glimpse into the future of smart living. Don't miss out on the latest trends and tips for enhancing your home with cutting-edge technology! 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/homekitCleanMyMac:  Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code HOMEKIT for 20% off at clnmy.com/HOMEKITGusto: Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/homekit, and get three months free when you run your first payroll.HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Apple Home community on diggDewenils Single Outlet Outdoor Smart PlugDewenils Double Outlet Outdoor Smart PlugAqara U400 UWB Smart LockGovee Nugget Ice Maker ProThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    57 min
  8. CES Mega Episode -- All the Best Matter & Apple Home Devices from CES 2026

    12 JAN

    CES Mega Episode -- All the Best Matter & Apple Home Devices from CES 2026

    In this episode of HomeKit Insider, host Andrew O'Hara discusses the latest announcements from CES 2026, focusing on smart home technology and innovations. Key topics include Apple's upcoming mandatory home architecture upgrade, new members of the Connectivity Standards Alliance, and exciting product launches from brands like LifX, EVE, Aqara, IKEA, and Philips Hue. The episode highlights advancements in smart locks, thermostats, and home automation devices, emphasizing the integration of Matter and Apple Home compatibility across various products. 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)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.HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Apple Home Architecture UpgradeDJI Joins CSALifX Matter MirrorEve ThermostatAqara CES 2026Hunter FansGE ShadesGE New Shades on AmazonTCL LocksPhilips Hue Spatial LightingSensereo Airo KickstarterThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

    54 min
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About

Learn about the latest smart home news on Smart Home Insider! Host Andrew O'Hara discusses the weekly news, exclusive interviews, in-depth how-to's, smart home automations, integrating Siri Shortcuts, and reviews his recent smart home projects with an added focus on Apple Home & Matter.

Information

  • Channel
    AppleInsider
  • Creator
    AppleInsider
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 AppleInsider
  • Show Website
    Smart Home Insider
  • Provider

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