The HomePod and HomePod mini are known for room-filling sound and hands-free Siri control, but did you know that you can use Apple's smart speaker as a HomeKit security alarm? That's right, the HomePod and HomePod mini can work with various HomeKit sensors, allowing you to create a DIY security system using the accessories you may already have. All it takes is a few taps in the Home app and a subscription to Apple Music. Here's how to use HomePod as a HomeKit alarm.
How to use HomePod or HomePod mini as a HomeKit security alarm
In this example, we will be using a HomeKit door and window sensor to create an alarm automation. You can also use a HomeKit motion sensor — including those built-in to most HomeKit security cameras.
- Launch the Home app.
- Tap the Add Button (it looks like a plus sign).
- Tap Add Automation.
- Tap A Sensor Detects Something.
- Tap the Accessory that you want to use as your trigger for the HomePod.
- Tap Next.
- Tap Opens/Closes or Detects Motion/Stops Detecting Motion depending on your accessory type.
- Tap Time and set the specific times that you want the automation to be active.
- Tap People to set location-based conditions for when the automation will run.
- Tap Next.
- Tap your HomePod or multiple HomePods if you have more than one.
- Tap Next.
- Tap Play Audio.
- Tap Choose Audio....
- Tap the Search field or navigate to a song or sound in your music library.
- Type a name of an album, song, or sound using the keyboard.
- We recommend searching for "alarm sounds," but you can use any song or sound from Apple Music.
- Tap Search.
- Tap an Album or skip to the next step if you see a song or sound that you want to use in the search results.
- Tap the Add icon (looks like a plus sign) next to a sound or song.
- Tap the toggle next to Repeat.
- You can leave this off if you want your sound or song to only play once.
- Tap Set Custom Volume and use the slider to set your desired volume level.
- You can also choose Use Current Volume if you want your HomePod to use the last volume level.
- Tap Back.
- Tap Turn Off and set your desired duration for how long your alarm should sound.
- If you want your sound to play until you turn it off, choose Never.
- Tap Done to save your automation.
You now have your HomePod set to activate the assigned alarm sound when a motion event occurs or when your security device triggers. To stop your alarm, tell Siri on the HomePod to stop or create a HomeKit scene that pauses playback on the HomePod. You can then assign it as a favorite in the Home App for easy access.
Secure your home with your HomePod and the Home app
As you can see, using your HomePod as a DIY security alarm is a breeze. All you need is a security device like a HomeKit motion sensor and an Apple Music subscription. There are tons of sounds available to keep would-be intruders at bay, including horns, sirens, and even dogs barking — all just a tap away. For maximum security, be sure to leverage the HomePod or HomePod mini's power by cranking up the volume for your automation.
