I am curious about this. Anyone using Alexa or Apple Home in your configuration?

I’m fully Apple HomeKit bar one Mijia wifi plug. Using motion, contact, vibration, smoke, water sensors; light switches, plugs, led bulbs and strips.

My friend uses Alexa with Philips Hue bridge, bulbs and Bluesound multi room speakers + Echo Dots but no light switches nor sensors.

This post has been edited by soonwai: Feb 22 2019, 06:53 PM

Any feedbacks from these both?

I believe Apple Homekit isn't compatible for Android devices right?

I am slightly inclined towards Alexa due to its compatibility with both Android and iOS (Although both my wife and I are currently using iOS)

Why need to limit yourself to just one choice? I use all three - google home, alexa and Siri (even though I don’t use HomeKit). And I don’t have a HomePod so have to use Siri on my phone.

My Alexa gets the least usage though.

Do every device you are using have different functions? Like google home for your security devices and maybe alexa for some kitchen appliances?

Hi, there.
Actually, what you want to achieve with Alexa, Google Home or Siri?
Better list things that you want to do before selecting any Smart Assistant.

Yes and no because for example my Alexa cannot control the tv but my google Home can. And my light switches can only be controlled with Siri.

My air filter, robot vacuum and smart bulbs can be controlled by all 3.

Basically I want to incorporate my security system with either one of the device. Alongside, I would like to control my lightings, airconditioner, and fans. For the rest, I have yet to incorporate the smart plugs just yet, but I will add more probably.

Ahhhh this is really a good example. Thanks.

Then need to dig deeper.
1) Security system - what type? Dahua, Hikvision,etc.....
2) Lightings - smart bulb, smart switch......?
3) Aircon - IR control I assume?
4) Fans - smart switch, smart fan...?

After you pick what you want, then only go for the smart assistant

I want to find the cheapest paint in Malaysia. Do any of you know any?

Wrong post? -.-

Need to check what brand you going for the 4 items.
If choose Xiaomi, then go the Siri path.
If choose other brands, make sure got support for Alexa or Google Home.
Have fun.

I think they're both great. Most things will support more than one system. Now I use Siri and my iPhone/iPad/Mac. Will be adding a HomePod when it arrives. My wife's on Android so she uses the Mi Home app. Not sure about voice control on her phone.

I only started last month or so. This is what I have so far.


This post has been edited by soonwai: Feb 22 2019, 06:14 PM

Then it totally makes sense idoblu has 3

Wow yours connect to the fridge too? That's amazing.

Think that is just a temp sensor inside the fridge and a door sensor on the fridge door. Nothing special.

Bought these last week will configure them this weekend

Nothing special. It's just an Aqara temp sensor that I put inside the fridge. Always wanted to know how cold my fridge was. Used to have one in the freezer too. Just for fun.

Fubar20's way is a good way to start. I did something similar when planning on where and how to start all this Smart Home stuff.

1) Security system - CCTV: Currently old analog Dahua. Maybe will get a few Homekit cameras. Will still keep the Dahua running.
Analog Alarm: Still working and not touching that yet. I guess my Smart Home plan is not so much on the security side of things.
Others: Will be adding smoke sensors. And maybe one gas sensor.
2) Lightings - Yes! Replacing all light switches with smart switches (Aqara). Also a few smart plugs where appropriate. Stand fan, lamps, etc.
3) Aircon - Not at the moment. Was planning to get the LifeSmart Spot IR blaster for my aircon and TV but they took out Homekit support (could no longer generate the Homekit code.)
4) Fans - Just normal ceiling and stand fans for now. On/off via Siri. Still have to adjust speed manually.
5) Sensors - Door, motion, temp, water, vibration sensors. I got plenty of those but not sure how to best utilise them. So far the most useful is the motion sensor in the bathroom. Cause my son needs help when he goes to the toilet.
6) Automation - Haven't really got to these part yet. Maybe turn on the lights when I get home. Things like that. Right now just turn on/off porch lights at set times. Set using the Mi Home app. No Homekit required.

Also eyeing curtain and blind controllers and maybe a door lock. More pricey stuff for later.

This post has been edited by soonwai: Feb 22 2019, 06:43 PM

Don’t place too much importance in these voice assistants. To me they are more of a novelty than anything else. They don’t always work well. I have to shout at it most of the damn time lol. 😅

You intend to arm and disarm your alarm using voice?

This post has been edited by idoblu: Feb 22 2019, 07:55 PM

is Aqara sirim certified? if touch wood house caught fire will insurance company refuse to pay?