Apple will run a soft-launch of HomeKit products available from Apple stores, featuring products from HomeKit partners including lights, light switches, movement sensors, and the HomePod.
Soft-launch
Apple's soft-launch involves the release of partner products on the HomeKit platform, available from Apple stores in selected countries, and timed to coincide with the launch of the HomePod speaker, expected in February or early March 2018.
While the HomePod has a primary focus on music, the HomePod will also become the hub for a range of HomeKit enabled devices such as switches, lights, blinds, fans, thermostats, and other gadgets, turning your iPhone or iPad into the "remote control" for a range of home appliances and home gadgets.
Of course, you'll be able to use Siri on your iPhone, iPad, or HomePod to trigger the scenes and instructions you've set up in the Home app.
We expect Apple stores to begin stocking more HomeKit products in late January, in anticipation of a February soft-launch for HomeKit, enabling shoppers to buy accessories while they're in-store for the preview of the HomePod in-store in February, before a full launch of the HomePod in February or March 2018.
Until next time,
Xavier Zymantas
XYZtech
XYZ Media Group
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