HomeKit Devices Will Be Managed By an iOS 9 App Called Home

Apple has an app called Home that will be used to control and manage HomeKit devices.

Following Apple’s confirmation that the first batch of HomeKit-compatible devices are launching next month, more details of the company’s Internet of Things platform are emerging. Sources familiar with Apple’s plans told 9to5Mac that HomeKit will have its own iOS app, dubbed “Home.”

The app, sources said, will allow users to control HomeKit-enabled devices remotely in a smart house. Connected accessories, ranging from thermostats, TVs, security cameras, door openers and locks, will be managed through Home. HomeKit will also work using Siri, Apple’s personal digital assistant.

Furthermore, the said application will have a house icon with a dark yellow background on it, similar to HomeKit’s logo. Apart from its capability to control supported devices, Home will reportedly create visual representations of rooms in a home to easily organize devices.

The Apple TV set-top box will also play a major role, acting as the central hub for all HomeKit devices, sources said. Apple’s Home will be a feature in iOS 9, akin to what HealthKit is to the Health app. Apple could announce iOS 9 and the first HomeKit devices alongside the Home app at  WWDC next month.

Last week, it was reported that Apple is struggling to make its connected platform work. Engineers reportedly faced a problem with HomeKit’s software, which blew up because some devices were using too much memory. This alleged glitch fueled speculations that HomeKit will be delayed. Apple, however, dismissed the rumors.