How to Update Your Apple HomeKit Accessories With the Home App

In just a few taps, you can always make sure your Apple-compatible smart home accessories are up to date.

With the rise of security vulnerabilities in the smart home world, keeping your HomeKit accessories up-to-date is more important than ever. Apple's Home App simplifies this process by putting updates just a few taps away—if you have a compatible accessory. We'll show you how it all works, so you can stay on top of your updates.

As mentioned, you'll need a compatible HomeKit accessory to begin the update process. While there isn't a complete list of compatible accessories available, we have seen third-party vendors like Eve Systems, Belkin's Wemo, and Logitech all offer updates through the Home app.

You'll also need to update your iPhone, or update your Mac's software if you prefer to use a computer, and you'll need to be within close range of your accessory.

The Home app offers multiple ways to update your Apple HomeKit accessories. In most cases, a banner will appear at the top of the Home app, informing you of an available update.

After tapping this banner, you should see a list of accessories that have updates available, and you'll only need to tap Update or Update All to begin the process.

If the update banner does not appear, you can manually check for an update. You can check for updates via Home Settings or through the settings menu for your accessory.

To check for updates in Home Settings, start by tapping the More... button near the top right corner of your screen, then tap Home Settings. Next, tap Software Update, then tap the Update All or Update buttons next to your accessory.

To check for updates via the settings screen for your accessory, navigate to the room that includes your device, then tap its icon to bring up the controls screen. Now, tap the Settings icon, followed by Update All or Update.

While it doesn't work with all accessories, updating your smart home devices is incredibly easy with the Home app. By applying accessory updates, you'll benefit from the latest bug fixes, security patches and maybe even add a few new capabilities to make controlling your home even more convenient.

After graduating with a BAS in Technology Administration, Christopher has been covering Apple HomeKit and the smart home industry for various sites including iMore and HomeKit Hero since 2018. Whether it is installing smart light switches, testing the latest door locks, or automating his households daily routines, Christopher has done it all.