Can I use Siri to control non-HomeKit devices?

While HomeKit has certainly come a long way over the years, there are still a ton of devices on the market that don't support Apple's platform. If you are not paying close attention while shopping or impulse buy a device on sale, you may miss out on Siri voice control if it doesn't work with HomeKit.

All hope is not lost, though. You may be able to get your device working with Siri if you don't mind a little work. First, check your device's app to see if there is an update available. Some devices — like the Abode iota Security Kit and the Brilliant Home Control, gained HomeKit support via free firmware updates after release. If your device still doesn't work with HomeKit, you may be able to add Siri through Shortcuts or Homebridge.

Siri Shortcuts — the personal automation app built into your iOS devices isn't just for speeding up your workflow. The best Siri shortcut-supported smart home gadgets work outside the Home app, enabling voice controls and opening the doors to device types like coffee makers that fall outside of the world HomeKit.

Check your device's box for any references to Siri or a "Works with Siri" logo. If it does, look in the companion app to see if there is an option to "Add to Shortcuts" or "Add to Siri." This option is usually in menus like device settings, automation, or voice assistant controls.

In most cases, adding your device to Siri will only take a few taps. During the setup process, you will be able to assign a custom phrase for your device, such as Hey Siri — turn on the lights, and once added, you will be able to shout out commands to your iOS devices or HomePod.

If all else fails — and if you have a little patience, you may be able to get your device to work with HomeKit through software solutions like Homebridge. As the name suggests, Homebridge bridges the gap between your device and HomeKit by acting as a server, allowing it to function through the Home app as an "uncertified accessory."

The best part about Homebridge is that it is completely free — if you want to run it on your own hardware. You can run Homebridge on your Mac or devices like the Raspberry Pi, but to keep everything up and running, your device will need to be always on.

Since this process can be a little complicated, we recommend using a device like the HOOBS Starter Kit — a simple plug and play box that comes with a custom version of Homebride preinstalled. Through HOOBS, you can search for plugins from vendors like Nest, Ring, SmartThings, Wyze, and many more, all installing with just a few clicks and minimal configuration.

For more details on Homebridge or other software alternatives like Home Assistant, check out our guide: How to connect incompatible accessories to HomeKit.