What’s New in HomeKit in iOS 15

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This section is summarizing HomeKit and Home app improvements introduced in iOS 15, with a focus on security, automation, and Siri integration. Here’s a clean breakdown:

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:house: iOS 15 HomeKit & Home App Features

:locked_with_key: 1. HomeKit Secure Video + iCloud+

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Apple expanded HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV) through iCloud+ plans.

:package: New camera limits by plan:

  • 50GB plan ($0.99/month) → supports 1 camera (newly added support)

  • 200GB plan ($2.99/month) → supports up to 5 cameras

  • 2TB plan ($9.99/month) → supports unlimited cameras

:locked: Key points:

  • Footage is end-to-end encrypted

  • Video does NOT count against iCloud storage

  • Requires a Home hub (HomePod / Apple TV / iPad)

:package: 2. Package Detection (smart security upgrade)

HKSV cameras can now detect:

  • :package: Package deliveries

  • :bust_in_silhouette: People

  • :person_walking: Motion activity

This makes door cameras and video doorbells smarter for delivery tracking.

:key: 3. Home Keys (digital house keys)

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  • Stored in Apple Wallet

  • Lets you unlock supported smart locks by:

    • Tapping iPhone

    • Using Apple Watch

Benefits:

  • No need for manufacturer apps

  • Works like Apple Pay for doors

:alarm_clock: 4. Time-based Siri Home control

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You can now say things like:

“Hey Siri, turn off the bedroom lights at 9 PM”

What happens:

  • Siri automatically creates a HomeKit automation

  • You can later edit/delete it in the Home app

:speaking_head: 5. Siri + third-party accessories

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  • Manufacturers can integrate Siri deeper into smart devices

  • Requires a HomePod / Home hub

  • Enables voice control for:

    • Messaging

    • Reminders

    • Smart home control

:brain: Big picture (what changed in iOS 15 HomeKit)

Even though iOS 15 wasn’t a “big Home app redesign update,” it improved:

  • :locked: Security (HKSV expansion + iCloud+)

  • :package: Smart detection (packages)

  • :key: Physical-world integration (Home Keys)

  • :robot: Automation via Siri (time-based commands)

  • :house: Smarter ecosystem integration

:high_voltage: Simple summary

iOS 15 HomeKit turned Apple’s smart home system into:

more secure, more automated, and more “hands-free with Siri”

If you want, I can also:

  • Compare HomeKit vs Google Home vs Alexa

  • Or list best HomeKit devices in 2026

  • Or summarize all iOS 15 “hidden features” in one sheet