Thread is the wireless connectivity standard that has received more attention since Apple introduced the HomePod Mini back in October 2020. Since then the list of HomeKit devices that support Thread has grown. So this article is your complete guide to all the HomeKit enabled devices and accessories that support Thread and will be updated when new products arrive.
Before you read on and If you want to know more about Thread and what it means for HomeKit. Then you can watch this video, or checkout this article which will take you through what Thread means to HomeKit.
You should also pay close to attention to the generation of the HomeKit device you are looking to buy. Some manufacturers are updating older devices to support Thread. But this is only possible with the right wireless hardware inside. So make sure when buying a HomeKit thread device, you pay attention to the version or generation that is being sold.
HomePod mini
- Device Manufacturer: Apple
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Border Router
- Read the HomePod review
- Buy from Apple
Apple TV 4K with Thread
- Device Manufacturer: Apple
- Generation supported: Gen 5
- Thread device type: Border router
- Buy on Amazon
The New Apple TV 4K can support4K streaming as well as HDR, including Dolby Vision at 60 FPS. It also supports Dolby Atmos and can be paired with the OG HomePod for Home Theatre.
While all of this is great, the biggest feature for HomeKit users is Thread support built in. This means that the New Apple TV 4K will be the second border router device that provides support within HomeKit.
The device that kick started the buzz around Thread for HomeKit, the HomePod Mini was First introduced in October 2020. This smart speaker is more than just a way to play your favourite music or PodCast. It also has tech inside that enables it to create a Thread network via its Thread border router capability. So if you want to enable other HomeKit accessories to join via Thread to HomeKit, then you need this device.
You can checkout our HomePod Mini review, which will take you through how this device performs.
Eve Weather
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 2
- Thread device type: End point
- Read the Eve Weather Review
- Buy from Amazon
The new Eve Weather will follow a familiar design as Eve’s HomeKit devices, but a new larger screen. Because of the larger screen, it will present users with all the data on one screen, saving having to scroll.
Eve Weather will collect the barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity levels. The device will also display each morning with a 12-hour weather trend. It has IPX3 resistance to handle the weather and will support Bluetooth and Thread wireless connectivity.
Eve Room
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 4
- Thread device type: Thread End Point
- Buy on Amazon
Eve Room is one of now ten Eve products that work with HomeKit via Thread, which is great to see.
Like the previous version, the new Eve Room provides three sensors that capture data ontemperature, humidity, and VOClevels. In terms of design, the updated air quality sensor looks exactly the same featuring an aluminum body and an e-ink display. Power is provided by an integrated rechargeable battery that provides six weeks of power and this can be recharged via micro-USB.
Eve Door and window sensor
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 2
- Thread device type: End point
- Buy from Amazon
This HomeKit device lets you know the status of your door or window , if its open or closed Plus, the device is a breeze to install with no tools required. You can control other HomeKit-accessories in your home whenever doors or windows are opened or closed via automations.
As already mentioned about the hardware generation version. The Eve Door and Window sensor only supports Thread with the generation 2 devices.
Eve Aqua
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation incompatible: Gen 2
- Thread device type: End point
- Buy from Amazon
Water your garden and patio plants automatically with the Eve Aqua smart water controller. Or turn on your sprinkler using your iPhone. Eve Aqua converts your regular outdoor faucet into a smart water outlet quickly and hassle-free.
The Eve Aqua is another device that you need to pay attention to the generation. It is only the generation 2 that supports Thread.
Eve Motion Blinds
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation incompatible: Gen 1
- Thread device type: End point
The Eve MotionBlinds are HomeKit compatible and connect over Thread and Bluetooth, plus Matter-ready when the time comes.The Thread enabled smart blinds will first ship as roller shades, with other styles coming soon. A rechargeable USB-C battery-powered motor powers Eve MotionBlinds, and users have the option of manual control with a pull cord.
Eve Energy
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 4 for EU, Gen 3 for UK and Gen 4 for US
- Thread device type: Thread Router
- UK £39.99 US $39.99 and EU €39.99
- Read the Eve Energy Review with Thread
Control your lights and appliances with a simple tap or by asking Siri, and see how much power they’re using. Or effortlessly set up schedules that put your appliances on autopilot, turning your floor lamps, dehumidifier and many other devices on and off independently of your iPhone or internet connection.
The Eve Energy can act as a Thread router and help expand the mesh network. Which will help with devices like the Eve Aqua or Weather that may be placed in locations like the garden.
The Eve Energy which is available in several countries with Thread support. It also another one of those devices that you need to pay particular attention to the generation number. For the EU its 4th Gen, the UK 3rd Gen and the US 4th Gen.
Eve Light switch
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation compatible: Gen 2
- Thread device type: Router
- Buy from Amazon
The Eve Light switch which will be released later in 2021 will support Thread via HomeKit. You will be to install this smart light strip in your home to control lights and even other devices.
Eve Thermo
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 4
- Thread device type: Thread End Point
- Buy on Amazon
Replace your old radiator valve with a smart one. The Eve Thermo Smart Radiator Valvewill take care of maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home – simply adjust settings with your smartphone.
Eve Water Guard
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 2
- Thread device type: Thread router node
A water leak sensor may not be the first HomeKit accessories that you would think of for your smart home. But the Eve Water Guard could be a device that saves you from water damage and the cost of repairs. Eve is updating the Water Guard to support Thread
Nanoleaf Essentials bulb
- Device Manufacturer: Nanoleaf
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Router
- Read the Nanoleaf Essentials bulb review
- Buy from Nanoleaf
The Nanoleaf Essentials smart bulb range comes in E26 and B22 smart bulbs, which allow’s it to be placed in a variety of light fittings. It is capable of warm and cool colour temperatures along with 16 million colour range.
Nanoleaf Essentials light strip
- Device Manufacturer: Nanoleaf
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Router
- Read the Nanoleaf Essentials light strip review
- Buy from Nanoleaf
The Nanoleaf Essentials light strip comes in a 2 meter light strip and can be extended via optional extension kits. It is capable of warm and cool colour temperatures along with 16 million colour range.
Nanoleaf Shapes
- Device Manufacturer: Nanoleaf
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Thread Border Router
The Nanoleaf shapes come in Hexagons, triangles and mini triangles. Each shape can be connected together to form a wall of art that can change colour.
Nanoleaf Elements
- Device Manufacturer: Nanoleaf
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Thread Border Router
- Read the Nanoleaf Elements Review
- Buy them on Amazon
Nanoleaf annouced its new Elements light panels that feature a wood look. The panels are made of laminate plastic with a wood grain finish. The Nanoleaf Elements only offer ambient white light ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 Kelvins.
The Elements work over 2.4 Ghz Wi-Fi, so no hub required and via Thread
Nanoleaf Lines
- Device Manufacturer: Nanoleaf
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Thread Border Router
Nanoleaf has announced its latest smart lighting product called Lines. The Nanoleaf Lines are a lighting product that works with HomeKit and feature Thread Border Router support.
The Lines connect together with the help of 6-sided connectors that fix to the wall. Each Line has two separate colour zones, with each strip and zone within each strip individually controllable. The Nanoleaf lines connect to your network via Wi-Fi and they also support thread.
Wemo Stage Scene Controller
- Device Manufacturer: Eve
- Generation supported: Gen 4
- Thread device type: Thread End Point
- Review here
- Buy on Amazon
The Wemo Stage Scene Controller came out around April 2021and although Belkin stated, it was Thread Ready. The smart remote did not support Thread, and it relied on Bluetooth to connect to HomeKit with mixed results being reported.
Coming soon, Thread enabled HomeKit devices
Of course, the list would not be complete without the “Coming Soon” section. But a note to readers: this is only HomeKit devices that are gone past the rumour stage and officially announced. Of course I cannot account for manufacturers, not actually shipping these devices or updating the firmware as planned.
Schlage Encode Plus
- Device Manufacturer: Schlage
- Generation supported: Gen 1
- Thread device type: Thread end point
The Schlage Encode Plus is a smart lock that supports Apple HomeKit, Home Key and Thread
The Schlage Encode Plus a smart deadbolt lock that retrofits onto your existing door and will come in a variety of finishes and designs. The lock is available in a more traditional Camelot design or the more modern Century option. It will also feature a keypad and a manual lock.
More Thread devices to come for HomeKit
As you can see, the HomeKit community has a healthy choice of HomeKit enabled Thread devices. Plus, as we roll further into 2021, we should see more devices from other HomeKit manufacturers.
So if you want to be kept up to date with the latest in HomeKit news and the developments of Thread. Don’t forget to follow for more news on Aqara on Twitter,Facebook,YouTubeandInstagram.
FAQs
Which HomeKit devices support Thread? ›
Currently, two Apple devices can act as Thread border routers: the Apple TV 4K (2021 or later) and the HomePod mini.
What devices work with Thread? ›- Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen or later)
- Apple HomePod mini
- Nanoleaf Lines
- Nanoleaf Shapes
- Nanoleaf Elements
- eero 6
- eero Pro 6
- eero Pro
Thread technology is specifically developed for smart home applications to improve connectivity between accessories. Now, HomeKit products can communicate not only using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but also using Thread.
What smart devices use Thread? ›- Apple HomePod Mini.
- Eve Energy smart plug.
- Eve Window and Door sensors.
- Eve Aqua.
- Google Nest Wifi.
- Google Nest Hub Max.
- Nanoleaf Essential A19 smart bulb.
- Nanoleaf Essentials smart light strip.
Our top pick for the best smart plug for HomeKit goes to the Eve Energy. We love this smart plug for its slim form factor, energy monitoring capabilities, and the fact that it doesn't need a hub since it utilizes Thread and Bluetooth connectivity. These features make it one of the best for those new to home automation.
What are the best Thread HomeKit lights? ›Best overall smart lights for Apple HomeKit
Nanoleaf tops our list as one of the few smart lights that support Thread through HomeKit. Thread is a new wireless protocol that promises to improve response times and provide redundancy as devices get added and removed from the mesh network.