The Apple HomeKit ecosystem is one of the most cohesive all-in-one smart home integrations. ADT is one of the best home security systems, ADT does not natively support Apple HomeKit, but you can connect the two systems through a third-party source.
In this article, we will discuss how Homebridge works as a gateway between the two systems so you can make an informed decision before connecting ADT to HomeKit.
Unlike Google Assistant, which seamlessly pairs with your ADT control panel, it is practically impossible to integrate HomeKit-enabled devices with the ADT system directly.
Apple users are well aware that Apple strictly debars third-party sources from infiltrating their ecosystem.
Although the ADT Pulse App works with Apple devices like iPhones, Ipads, and even the Apple watch, it is not directly compatible with HomeKit.
You must be thinking, why doesn’t ADT natively support HomeKit? The answer is pretty simple: There are configuration limitations and licensing requirements set by
Why Does ADT Not Support HomeKit?
Unlike Google Assistant, which seamlessly pairs with your ADT control panel, it is practically impossible to integrate HomeKit-enabled devices with the ADT system directly.
Apple users are well aware that Apple strictly debars third-party sources from infiltrating their ecosystem.
Although the ADT Pulse App works with Apple devices like iPhones, Ipads, and even the Apple watch, it is not directly compatible with HomeKit.
You must be thinking, why doesn’t ADT natively support HomeKit? The answer is pretty simple: There are configuration limitations and licensing requirements set by Apple.
For ADT to meet those security specifications, it requires special encryption and an authentication chipset that will hitch the products’ prices up a considerable notch.
Hence, the DIY home security system does not support HomeKit and only works with Google Home and Amazon Echo.
What Is Homebridge?
We have already discussed how ADT does not work with HomeKit devices by default.
The only way to integrate the two systems is through a ‘bridge’ device or a gateway that is an intermediary between them.
Hence, ADT products need to be abridged to a gateway platform that shows up on Apple Home. Homebridge is a mediator and a customizable server that integrates ADT with HomeKit. There are two ways to do this:
- Set Up Homebridge on your PC
- Use a HOOBS (Homebridge Out of a Box) hub
The former option requires a fair amount of technical knowledge and a computer, though the latter is considered more cost-effective in the long run. The steps to set up the devices are listed below.
Set Up Homebridge On Your PC
Users usually do not prefer this method because it is quite tedious and draining. Remember that your computer needs to be on during the entire integration process, and even a slight glitch will result in having to start over. Here’s how you can set up Homebridge on your PC:
- Step 1: Download Node.js and install it onto your system to run.
- Step 2: Install Homebridge.
- Step 3: Set Up Homebridge as a service using the administrator Node.js command prompt.
- Step 4: Run the code on Node.js as shown on the Homebridge Page for your operating system.
- Step 5: Access the Homebridge UI by logging into your account to update and remove plug-ins.
These are the general steps of setting up Homebridge on your PC. However, to receive a detailed description of the process of setting up Homebridge on your specific operating system, we recommend visiting the official page.
Use A HOOBS Hub
The HOOBS Homebridge hub is a plug-and-play device that comes pre-installed. It is an effortless yet effective way of integrating the two systems.
- Step 1: Connect your HOOBs hub to your internet network via WiFi or an ethernet cable. Make sure that HomeKit is connected to the same network.
- Step 2: Open https://hoobs.com on your browser and create an account with a secure password.
- Step 3: After logging into your account, search for the ‘ADT pulse’ plug-in. Alternatively, you can look for the plug-in page and click on the install button.
- Step 4: Following the plug-in installation, a platform will ask you for the configuration code.
- Step 5: The ADT alarm system will automatically connect to your Apple HomeKit ecosystem once the code is entered.
If this method proves to be futile, you can access the automatic configuration page and then add your ADT username and password. Again, there are community-contributed plug-ins to assist you through the process. Next, do a quick cellular backup and restart the HOOBS network. By doing this, ADT sensors connect to ADT and the HomeKit platform.
Does Siri Work With The ADT Pulse App?
We have already discussed why HomeKit compatible products cannot directly access the hands-off experience with voice commands. However, there is still a way to use basic Siri commands on your iOS devices via the ADT Pulse App.
You can conveniently add Siri Shortcuts to the ADT Pulse App. The commands are, of course, limited, and you cannot operate your home remotely as ADT and HomeKit are not integrated.
3 Benefits Of The ADT-HomeKit integration
1. Live Video Streaming Clips
You can access your indoor and outdoor cameras through your smart home devices. ADT cameras send you to live video streaming clips and email notifications on your HomeKit devices so that you can conveniently skim over the video footage.
2. Control Your ADT Alarm System
You will now receive instant alerts through speakers and can even observe your home remotely to arm or disarm your home security system using Siri voice commands.
3. Set a Scene
You can set a scene using Siri. For example, if you are in the mood for a romantic dinner or even a cozy reading session, you can disarm your system and unlock your front door using smart locks while driving back home.
The capabilities of your smart home integration are endless. In addition, you have the luxury of monitoring your ADT alarm system anywhere with voice commands.
Closing Words
The professional monitoring of ADT and the smart HomeKit framework works as a powerful duo in home security.
Although the combined costs of this framework skyrocket to a huge sum, the benefits of investing in individual products are too tempting to resist. Therefore, you can seamlessly use the HOOBS platform to connect ADT products with HomeKit. We hope this article was helpful!