Apple HomeKit's Hottest New Products for 2017

It's the start of another year for Apple HomeKit, the framework that allows software developers to create home automation applications. Since Apple first announced HomeKit in June 2014, the number of HomeKit-compatible products has continued to rise.

This growth should continue to accelerate in 2017 as more products are released from some of the biggest names in the industry.

In this article, you'll learn more about some of the coolest HomeKit products set to be released in 2017.

Smarter Security

Home security is one of the fastest-growing product categories under the Apple HomeKit umbrella. Developments in security products include actual home security systems, as well as smart locks and sensor devices.

Omna 180 Cam HD security camera [No Longer Available]

One of the first indoor cameras with HomeKit support is now available. The D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD features a 1080p camera with an 180-degree field of view. Other features include night vision, two-way radio, and an SD card slot.

Thanks to HomeKit integration, the Omna 180 can send you a notification whenever there is movement in your home. You can also view the camera's encrypted live feed from your iOS device, regardless of your location. Coupled with other HomeKit devices, the Omna can also turn on lights when it detects motion.

The $200 Omna 180 is currently available through Apple and should arrive at other retailers soon.

Kwikset Premis

This smart lock helps you to secure your home via an app on your iOS device. And with HomeKit integration, the Kwikset Premis allows Apple's Siri to get involved in your home security too.

Are you looking for a third way to secure your home? The Kwikset Premis allows you to assign up to 30 customizable user codes for family, friends, and guests, so you always know who's at home and when.

The $229 Kwikset Premis has already launched and comes in Venetian Bronze and Satin Nickel models.

Withings Home Plus [No Longer Available]

Though primarily known for its fitness products, Withings has also dabbled in the smart home market courtesy of its Withings Home indoor security camera (UK). Initially launched in 2015, the tiny device with a modern design monitors motion and noise, plus indoor air quality. It also works as a nifty baby monitor with its built-in two-way talk feature.

At this year's Consumer Electronics Show, the company introduced the Withings Home Plus. The new device includes the same features found on the original, and now offers HomeKit integration.

Highlights include the ability to:

Control and interact using a single tap of your finger or through voice commands to Siri.
Create automated scenarios to connect with other HomeKit compatible devices, such as lights, thermostats, and door locks.

The $200 Withings Home Plus launches later this year.

Netatmo

Known for its weather stations and home monitoring products, Netatmo plans on launching two new HomeKit-enabled security gadgets in the coming months.

With the Netatmo Smart Smoke Alarm, you receive real-time alerts direct to your smartphone, even when you are miles away from home. The device also offers automatic self-check and end of lifetime warnings. In other words, the smoke detector tells you when it should be replaced.

Meanwhile, the Netatmo Indoor Security Siren alerts you via your smartphone when a home intrusion occurs. Better still, it emits a powerful 110 dB siren to deter intruders.

The Netatmo Smart Smoke Alarm and Netatmo Indoor Security Siren both launch in mid-2017 with prices to be announced.

Smarter Lighting

Smart lighting doesn't only consist of the types of bulbs you buy for your home. These products also include secondary solutions like switches, dimmers, and outlets.

LIFX

One of the more popular names in smart lighting, LIFX, is finally adding HomeKit compatibility to its products.

Third-generation LIFX and LIFX + product lines already include the hardware necessary for HomeKit support. It's now up to LIFX and Apple to complete a few more steps before this compatibility arrives for customers.

According to LIFX, this should happen during the third quarter of 2017.

With LIFX smart light bulbs, you can choose between millions of colors or 1,000 shades of white. You don't need to purchase extra hardware to get started with LIFX. Simply replace your existing bulbs and download the free LIFX app to get started.

LEDVANCE [No Longer Available]

Sylvania's first HomeKit-compatible product, the Smart Multicolor A19 is controllable via Siri and the Apple Home app.

Like LIFX products, the A19 doesn't require a separate hub for use. All you need to do is place the bulb into an existing socket to get started.

The HomeKit-enabled Sylvania Smart Multicolor A19 bulb launches first on Amazon later this year.

Leviton

There are a number of new HomeKit-enabled products coming soon from Leviton, including switches, dimmers, and outlets. Each product comes with easy app-based setup and control. Once installed, these products help control your lights and appliances.

You can also use the free Leviton app, Decora Smart Home, for advanced lighting control and customizable settings, including bulb type, adjustable fade rate, minimum/maximum brightness levels and more.

Leviton's new product line launches in April 2017 with prices ranging from $35 to $50.

Incipio

Two new smart home accessories that work with Apple's HomeKit framework are set to arrive from Incipio. The Wireless Smart Wall Switch and Wireless Smart Power Strip join the company's popular CommandKit lineup later this year.

With the $60 Wireless Smart Wall Switch, you can toggle connected lights and also set brightness levels. It also includes an integrated motion sensor.

The $100 Wireless Smart Power Strip offers four smart outlets that can be controlled separately using HomeKit with Siri, the Apple Home app, and automation.

Both products are expected to launch during the second quarter of 2017.

An Exciting Year Ahead

For Apple HomeKit users, 2017 is shaping up to being a big year. From security cameras to lighting products, there's a lot of new gadgets set to arrive soon.

What Apple HomeKit products do you use? Which of these products are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below.