Ivan said:
Why are so many HA fans promoting it here?
Many of us started with different setups and eventually switched to HA.
I bet many of us wish we’d just started with HA!
@Ivan
The early days of HA were tough! It’s way more user-friendly now.
Usually when I recommend it, it’s because the question is about moderately complex automations. Platforms like HomeKit or Google Home let you control devices but don’t have strong scripting capabilities.
I started on Wink and had some early Wemo plugs.
@Rowen
Exactly—basic tasks can be handled by HomeKit or Google, but when people come here with complex questions, HA is often the best answer.
It’s like the composting forum, where people keep asking if they can compost specific items, and the answer is always yes.
TomHenry said:
It’s like the composting forum, where people keep asking if they can compost specific items, and the answer is always yes.
‘And yes, you can also pee on it’
TomHenry said:
It’s like the composting forum, where people keep asking if they can compost specific items, and the answer is always yes.
I mean, in the long run, isn’t everything compostable?
You could go for something like a Homey Pro, or deal with 20 different apps. HA isn’t a must, but it’s a smart choice for most users who buy devices separately and want it all to work together.
I used multiple apps for years before switching. Now I wonder why I waited so long; it’s easy to learn at your own pace and unlock so many new possibilities.
@Collin
Actually, people are saying HA is a must. It’s the default answer everywhere, even on Apple Home forums.
Pushing HA as the answer for everyone is lazy and discourages people new to the space. It’s like suggesting a DIY smartwatch repair when someone just needs a new battery.
@Stephen
> Apple Home does everything that the average person could want a smart home platform to do
What if I don’t own any Apple products?
Brody said:
@Stephen
> Apple Home does everything that the average person could want a smart home platform to do
What if I don’t own any Apple products?
If that’s your focus, then sure. It’s a system designed for ease, though, and there’s no better combo of functionality and usability in this field.
QuantumSleuth said:
@Stephen
But the Apple Home app is frustrating. Why would I invest in hardware only to be stuck using it?
Also, my partner uses Android, so they couldn’t interact with it.
I barely use the app myself. My setup is automated, and once configured, I don’t really need the app for day-to-day use.
QuantumSleuth said:
@Stephen
So the way to avoid the app is to automate everything? That seems impractical.
If you’ve got a bigger setup, Apple Home has some serious limitations, especially without Android access.
What kind of smart home isn’t automated? If you’re not automating, HA doesn’t serve a purpose either.
And both my apartment and house have complex automations people like you keep saying Apple Home isn’t built for.
QuantumSleuth said:
@Stephen
It’s unrealistic to automate everything just to avoid using an app.
You mentioned needing only HomeKit-compatible devices, so maybe your setup isn’t as complex as you think.
Who said I’m avoiding anything? Just because you think the app isn’t great doesn’t mean it’s bad. I use smart switches and customize them based on who’s home, time of day, weather, etc.
So, tell me, what’s complex about your setup that you think Apple Home can’t handle?
Honestly, this forum is full of people who don’t use Apple Home but claim it can’t do things that it’s actually handling just fine. It’s why I don’t usually comment here—by the time I give advice, HA fans have taken over, and new users think Apple Home can’t do anything. Small wonder home automation has trouble gaining traction with this crowd.
@Stephen
Perhaps there’s more to it than just Apple.
@irmah
I don’t know why you’re telling me that. I was only making a point about Apple Home requiring Apple devices.
@irmah
OP sounds like a hardcore Apple advocate in exactly the same way people complain about HA fans.
Brody said:
@Stephen
> Apple Home does everything that the average person could want a smart home platform to do
What if I don’t own any Apple products?
Lol, arguing endlessly in the comments. You must also be a cyclist.
@Kayden
What are you even talking about? I made one comment and I’m “fighting for my life”?
@Stephen
Honestly, for most people, a simpler setup would work fine, but all you’ll hear in here is ‘Home Assistant.’