New hardware, updates, and apps on the HomeKit Insider podcast

During the latest HomeKit Insider podcast we run through the latest news including an array of new hardware, updates, and app releases before tackling a string of listener questions.

Kicking off the new hardware news was the second-gen lineup of Decora switches and smart plugs from Leviton that all connect directly to Wi-Fi and don't require a hub. Naim is also releasing a new premium Wood Edition of its incredible Mu-so 2 AirPlay 2 speaker.

Lutron's Caseta Wi-Fi Outdoor Smart Plug is now available to order after being announced at CES while Eve has pushed its Thread firmware update to the Aqua smart watering system.

Aqara released a firmware update to its MS1 hub that adds Adaptive Lighting to its line of smart bulbs.

For UK users, VOOClinc's new camera — the VC1 with HomeKit Secure Video — has seemingly been released. It will assuredly be coming to the U.S. sooner rather than later.

Finally, Aaron Pearce is gearing up to release a new app called HomePaper. This app allows users to quickly and easily create custom wallpapers for the Home app with a customizable gradient and image.

When recording, Aaron was promoting an early Testflight build but since then it has been submitted to the App Store for release. It hasn't been released quite yet but should be available shortly.

Switchbot Giveaway

Tweet the text below from March 29, 2021 through April 7, 2021 to be entered to win! Three HomeKit Insider listeners will win everything below AND the 2 new SwitchBot products announced on April 4.

• 1 $50 Amazon Gift Card
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• 2 SwitchBot Bot
• 2 SwitchBot New Products

Click here to compose the tweet automatically or copy/paste the text below to be entered to win!

Tweet this and follow @SwitchBot @Andrew_OSU and @stephenrobles to be entered to win the $500 value SwitchBot Easter giveaway including 2 new products! Visit the SwitchBot store at: https://www.switch-bot.com?sca_ref=485321.JaWc5EStP4

Listener questions

Starting off our listener questions, Angel Vargas wanted to know what the future of Apple's smart home held as Apple discontinued the original HomePod. Short answer, HomeKit's future is only getting brighter.

Steve was asking us to compare the free Eve app as well as the paid Home 5+ app. He also wanted to know the pros and cons of the Netatmo doorbell compared to the Logitech Circle View doorbell.

A user wrote in wondering what the options were for adding HomeKit to a set of plantation shutters.

John queried if there was an easy way to find a HomeKit consultant for homeowners who want to set up a HomeKit home.

Regarding the Abode security system, Cameron Donnelly wanted to know if you are able to only arm different zones or if it an all-or-nothing situation.

Finally, we were asked if there was any smart lock that is capable of working with the Ring security system as well as HomeKit.

Links from the show

• Leviton announces second-gen Decora hubless HomeKit switches and plugs
• Lutron Caseta Outdoor Smart Plug
• Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation Wireless Speaker
• Naim launches Wood Edition of premium Mu-so 2 smart speaker
• Aqara issues firmware update to bring Adaptive Lighting to its smart bulb
• Eve releases firmware update to enable Thread support on Eve Aqua
• Smart HomeKit Indoor Camera VOCOlinc VC1
• Join the HomePaper for HomeKit beta
• Aaron Pearce Website
• Smart Home Need

Stay tuned for more!

Send your feedback to Stephen and Andrew via email or ask as us questions on Twitter @StephenRobles and @Andrew_OSU.

Please also leave a rating or review us on Apple Podcasts to help us improve the show as we move forward.

Those looking to sponsor the HomeKit Insider show can reach out to andrew@AppleInsider.com.