AllYouCanTech

Aqara Hub M200 Brings Matter Compatibility and Improved Automation Capabilities for HomeKit

The realm of smart homes is consistently progressing towards Matter, with Aqara being one of the key players propelling this evolution forward at a consistent rate with its new offerings this year. Their newest hub, the Aqara Hub M200, supersedes previous models and boasts a sleeker design, including Matter support. For HomeKit enthusiasts, this indicates a significant stride toward a future where additional Aqara accessories can effortlessly integrate with the Home app, while still capitalizing on Zigbee’s advantages under the hood.

### What the Aqara Hub M200 provides for HomeKit

The Aqara Hub M200 acts as the fresh gateway into the Aqara ecosystem, unlocking a variety of affordable accessory options. Fundamentally, it is a Zigbee 3.0 hub that endorses Matter and consequently HomeKit. This implies that accessories linked to the M200 can be shared with HomeKit via Matter, offering Apple users a straightforward route to incorporate switches, sensors, buttons, and other Aqara devices into the Home app. This process is quite similar to the functionality of the Hub M3, but features a more compact design.

Matter is the aspect that Apple and HomeKit supporters will find significant; for users relying on HomeKit as their primary smart home system, the M200 operates as a hub that effortlessly integrates supported Aqara accessories into HomeKit. There is no necessity to oversee multiple ecosystems. As the Matter specification evolves, incorporating new functionalities, a greater number of Aqara products will harmonize with the M200 and automatically be recognized in HomeKit, functioning seamlessly with your existing gear.

### Why Aqara remains pivotal in a Matter environment

Despite Matter’s deployment across the sector, Zigbee continues to be a robust protocol with budget-friendly devices that consumers appreciate. Aqara sensors are recognized for their speed, energy efficiency, and dependability. The Aqara Hub M200 enables you to take advantage of all the benefits provided by Zigbee while also engaging with the Matter ecosystem. For Apple users, this signifies the ability to expand your smart home utilizing Aqara sensors that are considerably less expensive than Wi-Fi-only alternatives, all while enjoying full HomeKit compatibility via Matter. A beneficial feature of the Wi-Fi is its dual-band support for both 2.4 and 5 GHz connections.

The Hub M200 also introduces the new Aqara Mobile Scenes feature, which allows you to activate multi-device scenes by long-pressing your iPhone or iPad. While not a HomeKit function, it serves as a handy add-on for quick access to routines without needing to open the Home app. Its usefulness will largely depend on how much interaction you have with the Aqara ecosystem beyond HomeKit support.

### Aqara Hub M200 standout characteristics

– Matter compatibility for integrating Aqara devices into HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and more
– Zigbee 3.0 hub that connects with Aqara equipment
– Local automation engine that ensures rules operate even without an internet connection
– Compact design featuring a gentle status light that can also function as a night light
– Compatible with the Aqara app for advanced scenes and Mobile Scenes shortcuts
– 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi

If you already own an Apple TV or HomePod serving as your HomeKit hub, the M200 becomes your link for Aqara devices. It gathers sensors, buttons, and switches and makes them accessible to HomeKit via Matter. From there, you can incorporate them into scenes or automations as you would with native HomeKit devices from other brands.

### Reasons to choose the Hub M200 over other Aqara hubs

Aqara has several hubs available currently, but the M200 occupies a favorable position. It is smaller and more cost-effective than the M3 and does not necessitate an Ethernet connection if not desired. It also fully supports Matter right from the start. For a setup focused on HomeKit, you don’t require all the advanced features offered by the M3. All you need is a reliable bridge that introduces devices into Apple Home without complications.

For those who already own an older Aqara hub, the M200 represents a compelling upgrade choice as it employs a newer implementation of Matter. It might emerge as the superior option moving forward as more Aqara products embrace Matter via Thread or Zigbee.

### Conclusion

At first glance, the Aqara Hub M200 may seem like a straightforward device, but it plays a vital role in HomeKit. With Matter establishing itself as the common language for smart home devices, hubs like the M200 contribute to prolonging the functionality of existing Zigbee accessories while making them compatible with HomeKit. If you desire the reliability of Aqara sensors and the convenience of the Home app, the Aqara Hub M200 is an effortless recommendation. Aqara offers a plethora of incredibly affordable accessories as well.

You can purchase the Aqara Hub M200 from either Aqara or Amazon.

macOS 26.2 Brings Enhanced Video Calling Functionality

### Edge Light: An Ingenious Method to Improve Video Calls on macOS 26.2

While the launch of iOS 26.2 took center stage, Apple unveiled macOS 26.2, featuring a groundbreaking video calling enhancement called Edge Light. This new capability is designed to elevate the video call experience by mimicking the effects of a conventional ring light using the Mac’s screen.

#### How Edge Light Functions

Edge Light works by generating a virtual ring light around the border of the Mac’s screen, brightening the user’s face during video calls. The technology supporting this feature is highly advanced. It employs the Neural Engine to identify the user’s face, dimensions, and placement within the frame, ensuring the best lighting conditions.

The Image Signal Processor fine-tunes the brightness of the Edge Light in accordance with the ambient environment, and users can adjust the light’s color temperature. All settings for Edge Light are readily available in the menu bar when the Mac’s camera is operational, alongside other options like Portrait Mode.

#### Compatibility and Features

Edge Light is compatible with all leading video conferencing platforms, including FaceTime, Zoom, WebEx, and Google Meet. Apple oversees the integration, which means developers do not have to implement extra features for compatibility. This smooth operation is a stark contrast to the manual adjustments necessary when using traditional ring lights.

Users have noticed a significant enhancement in video quality with Edge Light, even in brightly lit spaces. The feature alleviates the burden of achieving perfect lighting for every call, enabling users to join meetings with ease.

#### Edge Light Compatibility

Edge Light is available on all Mac models featuring Apple Silicon. For Macs released in 2024 or later, the feature can automatically engage in low-light situations. Older Mac models need to be manually activated through the menu bar. Moreover, Edge Light works with the Studio Display when linked to an Apple Silicon Mac and is also compatible with external cameras.

In summary, Edge Light in macOS 26.2 marks a notable leap in video calling technology, offering users a simple and efficient method to enhance their appearance during virtual meetings.

Discovering Unused iMessage Features You Might Want to Try [Video]

# Underrated Features of the Messages App: Essential Elements to Discover

Apple’s Messages app has developed considerably over time, integrating a multitude of features that improve user interaction and functionality. While numerous users rely on basic texting functions, there are various concealed features that can significantly enhance your communication. Here’s an overview of some of the top features you might not be utilizing yet.

## 1. Schedule Messages

The “Schedule Messages” feature enables users to designate texts for future sending. This is particularly advantageous for dispatching birthday greetings or reminders without needing to recall them at the perfect time.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Launch a conversation in the Messages app.
– Compose your message.
– Tap the **+** icon beside the text field.
– Select “Schedule Messages.”
– Pick the desired date and time.
– Tap “Send.”

Your message will show up in the thread with a dotted outline until it gets dispatched.

## 2. Safety Check-In

The “Safety Check-In” feature serves as a security tool that alerts a chosen contact upon your arrival at a particular place. It can also notify them if you face difficulties during your journey, making it an excellent option for parents or anyone wishing to confirm that their loved ones reach safely.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Open a conversation with the contact you wish to inform.
– Tap the **+** icon adjacent to the text box.
– Select “Safety Check-In.”
– Choose “When I arrive” or “After a timer.”
– Define your destination or time constraint.
– Review the information shared (location, battery status, signal).
– Tap “Start Safety Check-In.”

## 3. Voice Messages and Text Conversions

Sending voice messages is practical, but the text conversion option elevates it further. iOS automatically converts your audio messages into text, allowing you to read them instead of listening.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Open a chat.
– Tap the **+** icon adjacent to the text box.
– Select “Voice.”
– Record your message and tap the stop button.
– Tap “Send.”

The text conversion will appear immediately, allowing for reading or copying.

## 4. Direct Replies and Emoji Reactions

In group discussions, direct replies enable you to respond specifically to a message, clarifying conversations. Emoji reactions allow you to acknowledge messages without texting.

### Steps to Use Direct Replies:
– Long-press on the message you wish to respond to or swipe right.
– Type your reply.

### Steps to Use Emoji Reactions:
– Long-press or double-tap on the message.
– Select your emoji reaction from the available options.

You can now react using any emoji, broadening your choices beyond the previous six.

## 5. Favorited Conversations

Favoriting conversations ensures your most crucial chats are readily available. This feature is particularly beneficial for frequently contacted people.

### Steps to Utilize:
– Open the Messages app.
– Locate the conversation you want to favorite.
– Long-press on the conversation.
– Tap “Favorite” or swipe right and tap the star icon.

Keep in mind that you can only favorite up to nine conversations.

## Conclusion

The Messages app has evolved into a comprehensive messaging platform, competing with other popular apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. With functionalities like scheduling messages, safety check-ins, audio transcriptions, direct replies, and favorited conversations, it provides a rich communication experience. Discover these functionalities to elevate your messaging and maximize your iPhone’s features.

Last-Minute HomeKit Present Suggestions

Building a smart home ecosystem can be challenging. With numerous product categories, figuring out which ones to focus on can be difficult. Here are some essential smart home suggestions for equipping your smart home — all of which would make excellent gifts this holiday season.

## Lutron Caséta

For smart lighting systems, the [Lutron Caséta system](https://geni.us/w1jn2) is unparalleled. Lutron’s smart lighting switches can replace your existing wall switches, allowing them to operate through smart control solutions, enabling you to easily turn the lights on and off.

## Smart Bulbs

If Lutron Caséta switches aren’t feasible for you, like in a rental situation, there are alternatives. Smart bulbs are a fundamental part of the HomeKit ecosystem, with more choices available now than ever. They are also extremely beneficial for use in lamps.

## Lutron Aurora

The Lutron Aurora is an excellent addition that addresses one of the most irritating limitations with Philips Hue smart bulbs. These smart lights become unresponsive when a wall switch is turned off since Hue bulbs need the lights to remain in the “on” position to be managed via the Hue app or HomeKit. The Lutron Aurora is designed to fit over your physical wall switches. After setting up the hardware, you integrate the Aurora with the Philips Hue app. The Lutron Aurora is [available on Amazon for just under $40](https://geni.us/DJIZHGx). If you use Philips Hue, this is a simple way to enhance your smart home experience.

## Home Key Smart Locks

A favorite feature of mine within HomeKit is Home Key. It allows you to lock and unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch. The pricing for Home Key-compatible smart locks can vary significantly. My preferred choice is the [Aqara Smart Lock U50](https://geni.us/JPN6), but other options are available as well.

## Smart Plugs

Smart plugs that work with HomeKit make fantastic stocking stuffers. They can convert nearly anything into a smart-enabled device, including lamps, light strips, Christmas trees, and more. I’m particularly fond of the [Meross Smart Plug Mini](https://geni.us/Q5XeMHG), which can be purchased in a [set of four on Amazon](https://geni.us/Q5XeMHG).

## Door and Window Sensors

Having recently moved from the suburbs to the city, ensuring my doors are securely latched and windows are closed has become increasingly important. Fortunately, there’s a HomeKit solution for that.

## Smart Thermostat

Upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of the best quality-of-life enhancements you can invest in. My top choice in this category is the [Ecobee Smart Thermostat](https://geni.us/8mp2), which seamlessly integrates with HomeKit and Siri and features a stylish, easy-to-install design. It sets the standard for smart thermostats.

## Water Sensor

For homeowners, water poses a significant threat to your property. A HomeKit water leak sensor will immediately alert you to any leaks. I suggest acquiring several of these to distribute around your home.

## Smart Light Strips

Smart light strips are a timeless option for accent lighting. Whether you apply them under cabinets, behind a TV, or anywhere else, they significantly enhance your space. I have smart light strips positioned behind my desk and TV, and they are my preferred method for adding accent lighting to my setups.

## Eve Flare

One of my favorite accessories for HomeKit is the