So I’ve been slowly building out my smart home setup with a mix of Aqara devices and HomeKit, and I gotta say — getting Siri Shortcuts into the mix has been a total game-changer.
At first, I just had basic automations like lights on/off when I leave or return, but now I’ve got Siri doing custom routines with just one voice command. Like when I say, “Hey Siri, bedtime,” not only does it lock my front door (Aqara lock), but it also shuts the lights, turns my thermostat down via an Aqara relay, and even sets my G3 camera to night mode.
One thing that helped a lot: using the Shortcuts app instead of relying only on HomeKit scenes. That way I could link multiple actions, add delays, or even integrate third-party stuff like reminders or alarm changes along with Aqara triggers.
Also, some gadgets respond better if you give them a second or two between actions—don’t try to hammer five devices at once. I added small delays in the shortcut and it’s buttery smooth now.
If anyone’s been on the fence about mixing Aqara and Siri Shortcuts—DO IT. It’s honestly the most fun I’ve had tinkering in a while. Would love to hear how others are using theirs too! Got any slick routines to share?