Toronto-based Ecobee's SmartThermostat will be one of the first third-party HomeKit devices to support Siri

Apple announced during the WWDC 2021 keynote that it would add third-party support for Siri. One of those devices to get access to the virtual assistant is from Toronto-based company Ecobee. Later this year, the SmartThermostat with voice control will get the feature through a firmware update. You will need a HomePod or HomePod mini to get Siri to work with your device, though. But, if you've been looking for that integration, it's arriving soon.

Source: Apple Insider

Amazon's Eero 6 routers get Apple HomeKit support

Amazon has released a new firmware update for its Eero 6 routers that adds support for Apple's HomeKit. Older Eero routers support the smart home platform, so it isn't surprising that this latest line gets them, too. What this feature brings is the ability to firewall each of your HomeKit devices. When you do so, this ensures your smart home devices, like this router, will only communicate with devices in the same WiFi network, and it only connects to the manufacturer's servers for software updates. It's extra security for your smart home devices.

Source: Engadget

Philip Hue bulbs get support for Apple HomeKit's adaptive lighting

A HomeKit update will allow Philips Hue bulbs to automatically adjust the lighting throughout the day as it now supports Apple's adaptive lighting feature. It was first spotted in the Netherlands, but we're hoping it makes its way here. It works with Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance and White Ambiance lights. 

Version 1941132070 of the Philips Hue Bridge firmware introduces this feature to the smart lights. The Hue app will display a message explaining how the feature works once you get it. You can check if the feature is available to you by heading to the Settings menu of the Hue app. Select Software Update and tap Update when it's available. After that, launch the Home app, where you'll see a message letting you know if you have compatible Hue lights.

Source: The Verge

These HomeKit improvements are coming with iOS 14

HomeKit is getting an update with iOS 14, which we're expecting to arrive later in the year. Let's do a quick rundown under the cut on what Apple announced at WWDC 2020 about changing when it comes to your smart home setup:

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