Apple's iOS 10 Expected to Feature a Unified Homekit Control App
BENGALURU: Apple rolled out the iOS 8 that introduces the HomeKit app with a framework focused on assisting third party developers to build apps for home automation. Reports suggest that the tech giant is now aiming to release its iOS 10 built with a standalone HomeKit app. Rather than switching between different apps, the latest version of HomeKit will enable users to manage all the connected Internet of Things devices at one place.
Apple’s idea to further develop the HomeKit app originated from the concept of the Health app. The company introduced Health app and the HealthKit framework in iOS 8 which effectively collates all the data from third party apps and displays them in a single app. The HomeKit app will also adopt the same concept in its upcoming upgrade. For instance, users will be able to switch on the AC, open the door and turn on the lights using a single app. This information was disclosed mistakenly by an Amazon Reviewer claiming to work for the Apple's marketing team.
His comment in the review section clearly reveals about the release of Apple's standalone HomeKit app with iOS 10. "As I work in marketing for Apple, we test many Smart Home devices, especially for iOS HomeKit integration. Some advice, there are many third party applications, most free, that offer more control and customization(s) with many Smart Home devices. "Yonomi" is a free app that I often use, "Home" is another which cost $14.99. Both offer support for many devices with more added daily (including Amazon "Echo"). The next version of iOS due this fall will have a standalone "HomeKit" app as well," he wrote.
Apart from the devoted HomeKit app, Apple reportedly also focuses on introducing a major update for Apple Music in its iOS 10. With this new update, users can expect to have a customizable Control Center, push Apple News and multi-user support. Further details are expected to be revealed at the Apple WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference).
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