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Rachio 3 sprinkler controller adds support for Apple's HomeKit

Rachio on Tuesday announced that its Rachio 3 smart sprinkler controller now supports HomeKit, enabling control via Siri and the Mac, iOS, and watchOS Home apps.

Using the Home app, HomeKit setup should take "a matter of minutes," Rachio said. The company didn't immediately explain how owners would get necessary HomeKit codes.

The Rachio 3 is designed to control complex home irrigation systems. It's available in 8- and 16-zone versions, and via Wi-Fi connects to an iPhone app that enables scheduling, monitoring, and metering.

Support for sprinklers and faucets was added to HomeKit with last year's iOS 11, but to date relatively few accessories have taken advantage. The best known example is probably the Eve Aqua, which can turn a single faucet on or off.

Rachio 3

An 8-zone Rachio 3 is $229.99, and the 16-zone model is $279.99. People installing the controller outdoors will have to add a $29 weatherproof enclosure.