Brilliant adds HomeKit, new Hue bulbs imminent, & more on HomeKit Insider

By Andrew O'Hara

On this week's HomeKit Insider podcast, your hosts discuss Brilliant's new HomeKit rollout, the imminent release of new Philips Hue bulbs, as well as some DIY home automation projects.

Headlining the week's news was a leak that prematurely revealed several new Hue bulbs that are set for release later in 2021. We saw new E14 bulbs, brighter standard bulbs, and temperature-shifting versions of the filament bulbs. Nothing is official yet -- but the reliable leaker says we should see them in the August to September time frame.

Brilliant made the news as well, with the inclusion of HomeKit to its Smart Plug and Smart Dimmer Switch. Both were originally announced with a promise of HomeKit support -- and it is now available through a free firmware update.

Andrew took a moment on the episode to show off the KEF LS50 II speakers. These newly-released speakers add native Apple Music streaming as well as AirPlay 2.

From the audience

This week, Max asked us if it was possible to schedule night recording for his Eufy 2C camera in the Eufy app and while relying on HomeKit to record when away. Neither of our hosts currently have Eufy cams installed so we weren't able to test -- but it did sound possible based on our working knowledge. It does split up recordings though which can make finding your clips confusing.

We also heard some follow up from Aqara who wanted to ensure listeners who sought clarification that its new line of wall switches will be available not just in the EU, but in the UK as well.

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