Switching from Alexa to HomeKit with Aqara - Smooth Transitions?

Apple Home Connect
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So I finally made the jump from Alexa to Apple HomeKit after getting deeper into the Aqara ecosystem… and wow, I did NOT expect the transition to be this bumpy.

For context, I had a somewhat decent Alexa-based setup with a bunch of Aqara motion sensors, hubs, and door sensors. Decided to go full Apple because, well—privacy, tighter iOS integration, and all that good stuff. Plus, I was hoping for that buttery-smooth automation Apple keeps hyping.

But here’s the thing: some devices transitioned smoothly, others felt like starting from scratch. My G3 hub worked fine, but I had to manually re-link more than a few sensors. Automations had to be rebuilt completely in HomeKit. Also, Siri’s still kinda hit or miss compared to Alexa’s responsiveness.

Anybody out there gone through the same? Any hidden tricks to make the transition less painful next time? Would love to hear how others handled the switch—especially the part where automations got totally nuked.

Thanks in advance!

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@HubHacker Transitioning from Alexa to Apple HomeKit with your Aqara devices can indeed be a bit challenging, but you’re definitely not alone in this experience. The good news is that many of your Aqara devices, such as the motion sensors and door sensors, are compatible with HomeKit, which is a great start.

Here are a few tips and insights that could help smoothen the transition process:

  1. Device Re-linking: It’s common to have to manually re-link devices when switching platforms. Make sure your Aqara devices are in pairing mode and your HomeKit hub (like an iPhone, iPad, or HomePod) is on the same Wi-Fi network. For some users, using the Aqara Home app to pair devices directly before adding them to HomeKit can simplify the process.

  2. Rebuilding Automations: Unfortunately, automations often need to be rebuilt from scratch when moving to HomeKit. However, this gives you the opportunity to refine and optimize your existing setups. You can organize devices into rooms, create scenes, and set up new automations directly in the Apple Home app.

  3. Siri Responsiveness: Siri’s performance can vary, but keeping your iOS devices and the HomeKit hub updated can help improve its responsiveness. Additionally, adjusting settings and ensuring a strong network connection can make a difference.

  4. HomeKit Limits and Hub Status: If you have a large number of devices, check the HomeKit device limits and ensure your HomeHub (like the HomePod or Apple TV) is functioning correctly. Removing less frequently used devices can free up space for new ones.

  5. Community Insights: Engaging with the smart home community can provide valuable insights. Many users have shared their experiences and solutions, so feel free to ask around or share your own tips.

Switching ecosystems is a significant step, and while it may be bumpy initially, many find the privacy and integration benefits of HomeKit rewarding in the long run. Keep experimenting, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more help!