Smart door lock and doorbell are also essential part of the smart home ecosystem. Been using Homekit for the past 3 yrs, loves to share the experience.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing!

Have been toying with the idea to do up a smart home. This video is extremely helpful to weigh the pros and cons, especially on the part which catered to the stocks availability, affordability and suitability. Looking forward to your next video! Thumb up!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for your kind words!

This was super helpful - thank you!

great vid straight to the point thanks!

Short and sweet! So much information thank you Alex🙏

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Bryant as always!

i was looking exactly for a video like this, thanks!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

happy to hear that!

Hey love the videos! Thank you! I am interested in getting a full Aqara setup but I need dimmer switches too. I see that Aqara has dimmer but only sold in CN. If I get them, can I install in sg and integrate with all the rest of the devices? If not, what’s the recommendation?

I am a new subscriber!! keep up this amazing content!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the sub!

Ikea's Tradfri lineup is also worth considering as they work with Homekit as well. I use a mix of aqara and tradfri devices for my homekit setup

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Which specific tradfri devices are u using?

@ShawnAng

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo I'm using their wireless control outlet and smart bulbs. i must say the control outlet is very wallet friendly vs other brands

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

@@ShawnAng they should just call them smart plugs or smart socket, no idea why they gave it just a weird name. Anyway i have them via smartthings too, design not that nice but definitely very wallet friendly if you already have the hub

thank u so much this video was extremely helpful :)

So helpful thank you

hi, thanks for the useful video. I am facing a problem and wondering if you have any idea to work it out. Recently I installed both Aqara wired switches (with neutral, Chinese version) and Philip HUE lights. I want to control them via both Homekit and Google Home, while leaving it possible for my guests to control the lights via Aqara switches. And here comes the problem. By using Homekit automation, I can physically toggle the swtiches to turn on/off the lights, but why I turn off the lights, the lights will be physically offline as well, so I cannot control them via HUE app or google home any more (just like traditional switches). I then tried to turn the switches into the "wireless switch mode", but it seems that in this mode, only the devices added to the aqara hub can be controled, i.e. the philip lights or other devices in Homekit cannot be controled. By the way, probably because the aqara hub I bought is the Chinese version, I failed to link the hub to my google home. I assume that whether it's the chinese version or the overseas version does matter.

Nice!! Im so excited on your upcoming Google Home guide.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Coming soon!

very very good video ! thx

I Alex, great video. I have 10 SmartWings blinds and they work great and look fantastic and are sold a a very fair price.

Cant wait to see the review for the Aqara G4 door bell

Can I connect the aqara China product via the aqara m2 hub global version or HomeKit? Any issue with regional setting?

Thanks for the video, hope to hear SmartThings sharing soon. I did my smart home setup about 7 years ago via US SmartThings and Z-Wave. With recent changes on SmartThings app (discontinued support for Groovy), I am progressively changing the setup to their default app, and still thinking whether to redesign the entire system. Apple HomeKit looks good but I will have a lot of motion sensors, window/door sensors to change.. :(

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Yeah groovy ide is a strong selling point for me when i choose to go with smartthings, now everything is simplified. Zwave is probably the first protocol to phase out so maybe its a good time to do a tech refresh

Great stuff as usual, keep it up Alex. Still a bit iffy at the recent Eufy security... Looking forward to your Google home recommends!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks thanks, that will be up next!

This is very great info! Am waiting for your upcoming content as my smart home now is a mess.... have no idea where to start. So many apps in 1 phone.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

yup stay tuned!

6:31 Another great (and affordable) alternative for a smart thermostat is the Mysa Smart Thermostat. It supports Homekit.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing!

Loving the thread protocol (nanoleaf lights) in my homekit devices, having lesser lagging, connected via homepod mini. Aqara wall switch D1 and M1S on zigbee works well too. So far these works much better than Wi-Fi smart products which I have mostly stopped using. Other appliances I've used homebridge to connect into homekit (KDK wall fan, Mi SG purifier, air circulator via broadlink as aqara M2 IR didn't work as well for some reason). Venturing into philips hue and eve sensor soon. Don't recommend yeelight. And yes very excited for the full size homepod again!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Yeah i think that is the reason why hue costs so much more than yeelight. Their products are just much more reliable. Why not just use aqara sensors? Or maybe choose the same brand as your target device eg. Hue motion sensor if you want to trigger hue lights

@CL-sx3pq

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo Yup keeping within the same brands could be a good idea, but for my case: 1. Since i'm working the automation all via homekit app, that wouldn't be too much of a concern. I don't open the individual brand apps unless i need to upgrade the firmware, and i don't even use apple shortcut unless it's for an action that doesn't require voice command. Voice command for device activation via shortcut app is too specific and not versatile (that's also why I didn't use M2 for my IR device). I so far only use the shortcut app to turn on the lights/activate homekit scene when my alarm rings in the morning. 2. I've considered aqara sensor, but given that my bathroom does not have wet/dry area, having a sensor suitable for wet environment (IP rating) and detection range would be important. 3. I've enjoyed thread protocol the most till date, and thus when considering smart device, it's not just whether they support matter, but having thread is a bonus. 4. For hue, i've not thought of which lights to change yet, but since my ceiling is just full of down lights, I use the aqara wall switches + non-smart down lights (good combo for non-techy elders, and cheaper combo compared to smart lights). Probably will try hue for fun in the study/entertainment room. Still exploring the best way to do automation for an environment friendly for all ages, for those without smart-knowledge, and ultimately to run automation without internet :)

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

​@@CL-sx3pq because I realize the performance of having them within the same brand is better especially when the devices are connected via a hub/bridge although they are all configured on homekit. Eg. using an aqara motion sensor via aqara hub to control a hue light via hue bridge. Based on my experience, response time from bluetooth devices are not as quick but In the case of eve understand that its a combi of bluetooth and thread, not sure how it turns out in actual but should be ok!

Thanks for sharing about Homekit! I was thinking about getting HomeKit system for our new house since my partner and I are Apple users. As we have most of our devices are from Apple.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

yeah definitely consider homekit

I think Aqara Airconditioning P3 is a better choice for the price compare to Sensibo Air conditoning although they need to use China Server but will still link to Homekit.

Very useful and informative 🤯

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks konaaaaa

Don't forget homekit is now also compatible with hubitat which opens up way more products as a bridge. For myself, I am using hubitat for automations and an ipad as a dashboard via homekit. 👌

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

So basically you are using homekit just for the dashboard? Unless there are products that you really like that integrates with hubitat and not homebridge, else i will rather simplify the setup and stick with just 1 platform to maintain. But definitely having the flexibility works too!

@lauriebak

Жыл бұрын

I use Hubitat, Homebridge and HomeKit. Homebridge is great for bringing in items that don’t natively pair with HomeKit (or Hubitat,) but it is not a platform for creating automations. HomeKit automations are great for many use cases, and HomeKit also makes a great front end for everyone in the family. But, even with third party apps such as Eve, HomeKit doesn’t allow for more complex automations. Hubitat is great for those, though, so I couldn’t see retiring it. I was hoping to retire my Homebridge Pi when the Hubitat-HomeKit integration launched. But, it doesn’t expose to HomeKit the security or Internet connected devices that are connected to Hubitat. So, I still need it for a few devices. At some point, I may be able to lose the Homebridge, especially as I replace older devices with ones that are natively HomeKit compatible.

@hunterhelm6163

Жыл бұрын

@Alex Teo Yup using homekit mostly for the dashboard customisation it allows and hubitat for the automations. I started with hubitat and am glad that it is now integrated into homekit too for best of both worlds.. it's hard to beat homekit dashboard for it's simplicity esp. With customisation software like viz but the automations it allows aren't as flexible as what hubitat offers.

@hunterhelm6163

Жыл бұрын

@Laurie Baker I'm trying to avoid homebridge as it needs some tinkering with a raspberry pi and rather just be using home assistant if I'm getting one. That being said, with the release of matter hopefully everything will be easier, I am especially excited to integrate switchbot into homekit once their hub v 2.0 is released. Shall have to see how it goes as I am still currently in the process of setting up my smart home, with house still undergoing reno and all ..

Super helpful video! Seeing how the landscape has changed quite a bit. Is there any recommendations that you would change today?

Hi Alex. Great video once again! Do you have any recommendations for a rain sensor? I would like my blinds to close automatically once it starts raining. Thanks!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

unfortunately no, not aware of any

Hi Alex, thanks for the informative video. Any recommendations as to where to reliably purchase the HomePod mini?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Buying it direct from apple store is the safest most relisble, so if yourself or your friends/colleagues are going overseas can help buy

I bought the Starling Home Hub (cause I had too much problems and connectivity issues with HOOBS and Homebridge) to specifically get my Google Nest Doorbell (battery) and Google Nest Cam to work with Apple Homekit (and it works like a charm)... and yes I also do have the new IKEA Dirigera Hub for smart products as it has Thread which helps with Apple Homekit connectivity... Currently with IKEA, I've got a few smart bulbs, remotes and smart blinds linked up...

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing!

Hi Alex, thanks for the video! Would you think it's possible to integrate Dimmer Switch from Moes/Tuya into Homekit via Homebridge?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

there is a tuya homebridge plugin, no idea how well it works

Hi Alex, great content! Have been enjoying every video! I’m torn between getting locally distributed Aqara products and China Aqara products. Are there any real cons getting the China Aqara products other than not being able to connect to google home and Alexa. Thank you!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

hi thanks kenneth for your kind words. No warranty support for the products, maybe firmware updates in the future I am not sure. To me the hub is the most critical so better get the global version for that, as for the child devices especially those battery powered ones I will get from china

hi alex, really excited for this homekit video! you mentioned that region settings does not matter for the aqara switches? was wondering if you recently tested that cuz a local reseller told me that aqara recently (last nov/dec) started disabling connection for switches from china i.e. you will not be able to connect it unless you are on the china server

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

4:09 i am on china region, it doesn't matter which region setting you are on as long as you can add the devices into aqara app and the device works with homekit, you will be able to see them in the apple home app. But being on china region doesn't mean you can add all the devices in, for eg. I can add my global ver M2 hub into the china region, but I can't add the curtain E1

Hi Alex! For voice assistant, which would you use, Siri (with HomePod Mini) or Google Assistant(with Nest mini)? Not sure if you experienced it, but I find Google Assistant getting more and more buggy. Keeps turning on the wrong things, or does not understand simple straightforward commands.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Hmm.. for smart home controls i think i prefer siri. For google, i will avoid using words that it will misread, eg blind to light, dark to duck 😅

Hi Alex, great video. Do you know if Aqara E1 curtain driver from china works with Global hub?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

technically it should but i am not 100% certain

Hi Alex! been watching all your reviews and for someone like me who do not know how the whole smart home setup should work and the progressive purchase of smart home products. example every month you will buy a $500 worth and you can do a vlog on it on the which product you will buy first , the setups , and the upcoming purchase you will be buying etc for both apple and google side. I believe most smart-home integration will be done by the man of the house.. also not everyone have approval from wife for a whole smart integration system instantly which need to be bit by bit :P

Hi Alex. thx for the much informative guide. any other smart plug compatible with homekit other then belkin wemo. seems the availability of stock in laz/ shopee v limited.

@AlexTeo

8 ай бұрын

eve, if not meross

Hi Alex, thanks for the video. Was wondering, any reason not suggesting Aqara cameras instead of Eufy? Since you’re already encouraging to use as few systems as possible, wouldn’t using Aqara cameras be better? I find the cameras pretty good, support HomeKit secure video and no “privacy” issue (yet!?)

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

because I recommend going with solutions that is specifically for security cameras, with a more complete line-up of camera options both indoor and outdoor, also the software features

Hi Alex, great video on smart home as usual! Do you recommend using a smart switch for water heater? Also, what's the smart water heater switch compatible natively with homekit?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

for me i use a smart gas heater, you need a switch that supports a load of 20A for heaters/hob n hood such devices

Hi there, I am using the aquara video door bell but it demands that i need a home pod, to be honest, having siri is a hit or miss but i would like to hear your view. I am tempted to get the SD card though.

@AlexTeo

5 ай бұрын

unless you don't need any voice assistant at all for your smart home setup, then just the apple tv as the home hub then

Hi great information. Would like to check if you know aqara m2 hub (global) can pair with aqara China domestic switches eg H1m ?

@AlexTeo

10 ай бұрын

As long as it works with homekit, shouldnt be a problem on paper

Google nest hub max is one of my favorite matter 1.0 smart device

Hey Alex! Thanks for posting your videos. I am renovating my place soon and intend to make it smart! Your videos are super useful since I stay in SG as well. Quick question; when you purchase your Aqara products from TB, do they sell their products with the UK plug? Or do you use adapters?

@AlexTeo

5 ай бұрын

i did not buy any related aqara products that come with power adapters, eg. switches, sensors, curtain motors..

Hi great videos, subscribed! I’m looking forward to other videos about homekit, this is a good reference for southeast asia product market! But i have question, i’ve been using Aqara CCTV and logging it in my HomeKit, and its live stream displayed anywhere (phone, watch) but not Apple TV, do you have any solution about this?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

hmm no clue about that, i don't have an apple tv with me to test it out

Thanks so much for this video Alex! Previously mentioned had to convert to Apple HomeKit from google home as the aqara products I bought on taobao are locked to CN region due to aqara’s recent change and unable to connect to global region. This guide helps a lot and since my wife and I are iPhone users, using Apple HomeKit is not bad at all!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Yeah man, just get a homepod mini or apple tv to try it out. Its a much better platform than google home app

@vincentang3931

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo can aqara m2 hub works as replacement to homepod and/or Apple TV ?

Extremely informative video, thanks for making such video! Greatly helped me who is completely new entering into smart home stuff! Will you consider making a updated video for 2024 please? Will be getting keys to my BTO in the coming months!

@AlexTeo

9 ай бұрын

No huge changes so i wont make an updated video soon, instead i plan to make one on platforms

@seanong8074

9 ай бұрын

@@AlexTeo I see! Thanks for the reply! :)

Hi alex! your videos are very helpful. Can I ask, if I want my household items (curtains, lights) to be activated by remote switches, what is the minimum set up do I need? Because I am not a fan of voice control. Can I bypass the need of hubs?

@AlexTeo

9 ай бұрын

you can't, you can only try to reduce the number of hubs

Hello, what’s difference between Switch and Lights? I have a homepod 2 and im looking to buy a ceiling light and conncect it to my homekit

@AlexTeo

3 ай бұрын

A switch control the on and off state of a device wired to the switch, light is a device that provide you with some form of lighting such as bulbs, led strip or the nanoleaf shapes

Hi Alex! Thanks for the great content! I am revisiting your video as I am currently renovating my home. Am thinking of setting up a smart home as well and contemplating between Apple Home Kit and Amazon Alexa. I do have a few questions here and I hope you can help me on them. 1. I do have a Sonos sound system - will it have the capability to work like the Echo in an Amazon Alexa home system? 2. Have you come across any water heater switch that works with Apple Home Kit? I haven’t been able to find one. My use case: (I) automatically switch on the heater before I wake up (II) automatically switch on the heater before I reach home

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

1. sonos is a very closed system that only work very well with all sonos products if you are looking at a whole home system 2. i dont use electric heater so I have no experience in this area, you can always use a switchbot cheap and easy

I’ve been trying to find a smart lock for HDB gates that support homekit but to no avail. Any recommendations or alternatives?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Check out the solution from yale as shared

Nice video！ can do more video for apple homekit？ there are limited information at Singapore n Malaysia about the apple smart home system…

Hi Alex, In order to have an Apple ecosystem, I must have mesh routers compatible with Apple HomeKit? Can any brand of router be used? Thank you

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

any is fine, the linksys MX4200 just have extra features for homekit

do you know of a homekit compatible smart switch (20amp i think) for the water heater, dish washer etc?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

nope, its something i didnt dig deep as I don't use any of them

Hi, can i replace the Aqara M2 Hub by using the Apple Homepod mini?

@AlexTeo

10 ай бұрын

nope, homepod mini don't even have zigbee capability

Hi Alex, thanks for the great video! Watched it and decided to go for the Logitech Circle View Doorbell. Unfortunately, my electrician couldn’t get it to work. It works only when it’s connected to wall plug. Once it is mounted to the wall, the white LED just keep flashing non-stop. Do you have any electrician that is familiar with this product that u could recommend?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

its a wired doorbell so it requires a power transformer to regulate the voltage for it to work. My guess is most of the old electrician probably have no experience with smart doorbells

@ivantpc

Жыл бұрын

The electrician I got in used transformer for the installation but they are more comfortable with rechargeable doorbells. Now I’m stuck with a not working doorbell mounted on the wall.

this is very useful for smart home beginners! do you have any recommendations for ceiling fans that can integrate with apple homekit? thanks!

@AlexTeo

3 ай бұрын

best is to just use a smart switch or smart relay, have to go with those fans that doesn't require additional steps to switch it on once power goes in

Have you seen smart devices from Near in Singapore? How does it compare with Aqara stuff since they run Zigbee as well ~

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

They are tuya products, you got to use homebridge to integrate to homekit via cloud.

Hi Alex, I am starting a smart home solution soon. Can you comment on Mowe Smart Home, Home-A-Genius and Control 4? I am leaning towards Mowe as they have more appliances for integration. Between google home, alexa and home kit, which one is better and more user friendly assuming money no object.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Homekit if you are ok with apple ecosystem

Hi Alex, another great video as always! I have one question. Is your Aqara M2 hub a China version or international version? Any issue if I get a China version and run it in Singapore? Thanks!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

For homekit users, it doesnt matter what region server you use in the aqara app. Just scan the code thats all

@myrainforest

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo thanks Alex! 👍

hello Alex, happy CNY! i've been following you late last year (sorry for being late!) and also decided to get Aqara A100 for my new place after watching your review (your 2nd place for Top 3 Digital Door Lock). i saw Aqara's Camera hub G2H/G2H Pro/G3 supports Apple HomeKit and on their website it says they can store footage in iCloud - how/does that work? because im always thinking - if someone tries to break in and takeaway the SD Card/Camera itself, I have no proof... if it is stored online LIVE that would be helpful... ((very new to IOT, hence exploring and learning alot from you :D

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Hey there, you are right about the SD card. I am someone that is quite pro cloud, but provided its a big company like apple, google or aws. So i think it depends whether you care more about cyber security or physical local security (not sure whether this is the right term)

@ShaunLeeLC

Жыл бұрын

With Aqara cameras, you can always store on HomeKit secure Video which will be on the cloud. It’s not 24/7 recording but it should record any motion.

Would you be able to do a vlog, “a day in the life of computer engineer” in the future?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Yeah that's something i thought about a long time ago, although its not direct related to my channel content, but I guess i will just do one for fun!

@konatan1804

Жыл бұрын

Second that!

You mentioned 4:11 aqara switches can get from China, with that said, will it be possible to use the H1M as it is avaliable in black?

@AlexTeo

10 ай бұрын

yup should be fine by theory, having said that I will always buy 1 and test it out first

For IR on M2 hub , since it uses LOS I would need multiple hub to control different room IR devices?

@AlexTeo

Ай бұрын

yup, that's how IR blaster works

@teamnubcake

Ай бұрын

@@AlexTeo Any cheaper solution for IR blaster that work with Homekit?

Hi have you tried lutron dimmer switch? Seems like they are 110v will it work fine with our voltage?

@AlexTeo

9 ай бұрын

Can refer to my smart switches video kzread.info/dash/bejne/fn2btpOYqbjelLg.htmlsi=PlytluYrsFR0udiv

hi Alex, I watched your video on smart curtain posted 2 years ago "Smart Curtains for $120 SwitchBot vs Aqara" and noted you were using Aqara motorized track for curtain whereas in this video you recommended "Aqara E1 Curtain Driver". do you have any recommendations between these 2? I like that the motorized track can be connected to power directly and seemingly quieter but I think E1 is relatively easier to install. thank you in advance.

@pine_appl3

Жыл бұрын

and thank you for your video! I am an iphone user and this video is extremely helpful.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

I recommend both depending on whether you prefer motorized or retrofit, they are very different even from price pov. I will recommend motorized though

I’ve been thinking of buying the sensibo but I heard you can’t control the fan speed in HomeKit. Is that true? I’m currently looking at products like mysa but I don’t hear about them a lot.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

used to be but not sure whether any changes from updates, welcome anybody to share!

Is it possible to make a comparison between roborock q revo maxv vs dreame l20 ultra? ❤❤

@AlexTeo

3 ай бұрын

will consider!

Can I check, for Aqara core devices, how do I connect them in HomeKit? Do I need a Aqara hub in order to sync them to HomeKit? If yes, then do I still need a HomePod? Won’t that be having 2 home hub ?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

You will have a number of hubs each serving different purposes

Where did you get the folding glass door for your study area? Looks sleek!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

part of the reno package so no idea who is the exact sub-con

Wondering what additional features does an Apple home hub offer when the Aqara hub can control all the switches?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Local control and better security features

Hi alex, can I check with u. If I’m an iPhone user and would like to use china aqara switches with global M2 hub. Would it causes any issues/ lags? Also, would it be possible for u to explain local automation? ( are u referring to using phone to turn on/ off switches?) 🙏🏻 I’m looking at aqara product as my bto is completing soon. Hope u can advise on this. Thanks in advance 🙏🏻🙏🏻

@AlexTeo

6 ай бұрын

no issues, lag can be various possibilities that needs to troubleshoot, local means it works even when your internet is down

@wolfhideout

5 ай бұрын

@@AlexTeo so the global hub is able to work with china switches ah. I’m intending to save cost to buy china switches , sensors but afraid cos some say it will not work, some say otherwise. Thanks alex !

Hi, iam interested in homekit setup for aqara. You did mention region is not important as its running locally in homekit right? Currently I have a G3 camera hub global version. To add G3 to homekit, we only scan the G3 hub right QR, Other sensor still need to add to G3 via aqara app right?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

that's right, unless the firmware on the aqara hub blocks adding of devices not within the same region which could happen else you shouldn't face any issues

@Ian_81

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo thanks for the input.

Any updates for apple home kit compatible devices for 2024?

Can you suggest where to get HomePod mini? Since SG and MY is not selling? Considering to get it from Apple official store in Tmall, worth it? Or any other place?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

mine is an EU set, can check out carousell as well

Hi Alex, am going to embark on my home renovation journey in less than a year's time and coming back to this video as it is very helpful. My fiancee and I are embracing the iOS apple ecosystem with apple watch, iPhones, iPad, and looking to use HomeKit Smart Home as our primary set up. Are these things still relevant or are there anything new in the last 11 months that perhaps you can recommend to add onto? I will research a bit more on Aqara switches and other peripherals, likely getting them from Taobao if they are cheaper. For wifi, why is it that you mentioned only Linkedsys MX4200 is appropriate? Does other wifi / mesh system not work well? I would have thought the mesh system will only affect the strength of the signals across differing brands. Hope you can guide a fellow new home owner like me who is keen to model my house after yours to be a smart home.

@AlexTeo

7 ай бұрын

Still relevant today, mesh routers that work with homekit has added security features, you can go with ubiquiti alien as well www.apple.com/sg/home-app/accessories/

Hi, do u have any recommendation for smart power strips?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

nope for apple homekit

hi can I ask where you get the homepod mini from ?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

i got it from carousell

Hello how are you doing am called Phazo from Africa uganda always love your work respect

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks mate

Why do you prefer matter over thread? I’ve recently been building my smart home and have been shopping exclusively for thread devices

@AlexTeo

9 ай бұрын

Matter is the future standard protocol

Do you need a different hub to all these different brands that you mention?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

if they are zigbee devices then yes, else usually nope

Everyone always talks about the Lutron stuff, I am a big fan of the Leviton switches... I think they are more aesthetically pleasing, they're less expensive than Lutron, and don't require a hub.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Nice.. too bad they aren't available in singapore

Hi Alex, I’m confused with the comments I’ve read and the things you mentioned in the video. In order for apple HomeKit to work with Aqara devices, I need to have Aqara Hub M2? Why can’t I connect all devices directly to Homekit? Regarding zigbee z-wave matter, I can still use apple HomeKit?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

aqara devices all are based on zigbee, you need a device that is able to pick up zigbee signals so for homekit you will need the aqara hub

@andrewlee8110

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo I see. Thanks for answering my queries!

Do one for kitchen appliances haha

Any idea when Eve would be available in SG?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Totally no idea, but i think very unlikely

Actually is there anything i need my electrician to do in order to replace the aqara smart switches? Or as simple as just replace the current one? Sorry a newbie that is still doing research

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

it should be v simple, unless there is not enough space allowance to run the wires because smart switches are much bigger than the normal ones

Any thoughts on zemismart products? Understand they have a hub thats homekit-friendly which can be used as well

@nothing-ei3oc

Жыл бұрын

I think it’s good as it is cheap and works well. Have bought their curtain tracks and led strips. Best thing is it works with Tuya zigbee products so works with Moes smart switches which are the cheapest on the market. Their motion sensor is ok, I think aqara’s is more reliable

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

If you are using tuya then they are a good choice, but their homekit hub doesn't seem to work as well

@nothing-ei3oc

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo using a mixture of Aqara and Tuya products. So far, no issues with the zemismart hub after 5 months of use. Only issue I’ve had is with the motion sensor. All other bridged Tuya products have worked with no issues.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

@@nothing-ei3oc aqara is a much stronger player for homekit, unless zemismart offer certain devices that aqara doesn't, i can't see enough reason to introduce another hub for the setup

@nothing-ei3oc

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo price! Aqara’s products are great but its motorised curtain tracks are easily double the cost of Zemismart’s. Aqara’s switches are three times the cost of Moes (Tuya). I easily saved around $1500 on these two items alone. And reliability is pretty good so far - just check out the other KZread videos on zemismart products. And zemismart grants access to a wider range of products, including led light strips (way cheaper than yeelight), that Aqara has not offered yet as well as the Tuya ecosystem. Anyway, love your channel - bought the aqara a100 after watching your review. The feel is really premium :)

7:50 How to get this Apple Home screen on a LG tv ?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

That's via apple tv

@Alex Teo Possible to use SwitchBot Hub 2 with Aqara switches without Aqara M2 Hub?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

don't quite understand what you are looking for, what are you trying to achieve with the switchbot hub 2?

@stix55

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo I prefer to use switchbot hub 2 instead of Aqara M2 Hub, and probably using SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2. For the switches, to go with Aqara switches - so just wondering if I can mix them up. Does this make sense? haha

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

@@stix55 ehh... the switchbot hub provides remote access to switchbot products because they are based on bluetooth. Aqara hub controls aqara zigbee products, so a hub/gateway with zigbee capability is required

@stix55

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo thanks Alex. Watched other videos of yours and got answers too. Thanks! :)

Hi Alex, my hubby and I are two "oldies" who will be renovating our flat (cos we couldn't afford to downsize - ya I know that sounds "contradictory" but that's how things are right now). Anyway, we love your videos and we always say, before we buy this and that gadget, see if Alex Teo has a video on that or not first,😊. Thanks for all the objective advice, really appreciate it🙏🏻👍💓. Anyway we can PM you?😉

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the support! Feel free to PM me on IG

@lifern1437

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo Thank you very much Alex. But we oldies don't know how to use IG😅. But it's ok, we'll try our best. Will be watching your videos even though we are not into a smart home! Stay healthy, happy and safe!

Hi alex, not sure if you would be replying to this, would you recommend any Xiaomi product for HomeKit? ( not sure if it’s compatible as well)

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

you can refer to this site - www.apple.com/sg/home-app/accessories/

@wolfhideout

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo thanks!

Hello @AlexTeo, may i know which Aqara store in taobao that you have good experience with? I saw a lot of bad reviews from Aqara’s official store in taobao.

@AlexTeo

6 ай бұрын

sorry can't comment as I haven't been buying aqara products from taobao for a long time already

@shuperb

6 ай бұрын

@@AlexTeo where do you buy them from nowadays?

@AlexTeo

6 ай бұрын

@@shuperb aqara will send over test samples to me

What was the eufy drama about?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

can youtube search 'linus eufy'

HI for switches with neutral wire or no neutral ?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

optional for aqara, yes for lutron

@benjaminheng3401

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo The wall switches in SG has no neutral wire right? So any Aqara smart switch will work?

great video! i have a homekit smart home which took a long time to put together. this video will certainly help many apple fan like me in the future. one thing about the mesh system ax4200 sold in SG is that it does not have the apple homekit button in the linksys app. i contacted linksys about it and they said that they are still working to include that feature for SG users. definitely an upsetting info for me after seeing those marketing materials saying that it is compatible with homekit. also, apple dont have iwatch, only apple watch lol.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

wow that's good info, i didn't expect that it will be different for a sg model vs hk taiwan. That's very unfortunate because the homekit integration is the standout differentiator for linksys. I didn't quite get the joke about apple watch, what do you mean?

@linqiangfong8095

Жыл бұрын

About the joke. You said “iwatch” at 8:05. Apple’s watches are called “apple watch”. 😂

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

@@linqiangfong8095 ahhhh ok, did they change it over the years? I swear i used to hear iwatch in the past lol

@xtacbrb9286

9 ай бұрын

Able to share what you got for your HomeKit setup? More specifically I am looking for a HomeKit compatible RF receiver

@linqiangfong8095

9 ай бұрын

Unfortunately, I believe homekit compatible rf blaster does not exist. I was lucky to notice this before buying ceiling fan for my new home. Kdk ceiling fan uses ir. I’m assuming you need a rf blaster for your ceiling fan?

Just FYI I'm using the iPad option as a hub you just need to enable it.

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

did you update your iOS?

@JacobGagoOfficial

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo it should be in the latest. But it’s in the setting to use it as a hub. Found out how to do it from an article online.

HomePod mini is officially in singapore already

@AlexTeo

10 ай бұрын

Yup, some products take forever to come to sg

You have also IKEA products : cheap and good (lot of products) + VOCOlinc : cheap and excellent

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

yeah but i will reframe from adding more apps and more hubs/bridges to manage

@marvinz911

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo but Ikea product will require Ikea gateway right ? I can't seems to add anything Ikea to my m2

How about arlo security camera?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

a bit too expensive for my liking

May I know what the brand of that digital clock?

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

at 0:16 ? that's google nest hub gen 2

@lhsin861

Жыл бұрын

@@AlexTeo at 5:16

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

@@lhsin861 yeelight cube, their new product announced during CES en.yeelight.com/yeelight-ces-2023/

Hello Alex, but Govee is not supporting Apple Homekit ?!

@AlexTeo

Жыл бұрын

have to check on individual product