HomeKit Weekly: Homey Introduces New Matter Bridge Application to Incorporate More Smart Home Devices into HomeKit

### The Homey Matter Bridge: Merging Legacy Smart Devices with HomeKit

If you’ve been part of the smart home landscape for some time, you probably have legacy devices that are not compatible with Matter, such as Zigbee sensors, Z-Wave thermostats, and infrared remotes. Although these devices work perfectly, they usually operate outside of your HomeKit ecosystem. The latest update from Homey introduces a Matter Bridge app for Homey Pro and Homey Pro mini, enabling HomeKit users to effortlessly integrate a diverse array of non-Matter accessories into the Home app.

#### What Is the Homey Experience?

Homey acts as a flexible smart home hub that supports numerous devices across different protocols, including Zigbee, Z-Wave, infrared, Thread, Matter, and Wi-Fi. The main objective of Homey is to consolidate your smart home devices from various brands and protocols onto one platform. It handles device connections and automations, allowing control through the Homey app or integration with other platforms like HomeKit via Matter. In essence, Homey serves as a universal translator for smart home devices, akin to HomeBridge but in a commercially supported framework.

#### The Functionality of the Matter Bridge App

The Homey Matter Bridge app operates as an intermediary for older devices, permitting them to connect to Matter. Homey already accommodates multiple protocols, and with this app, any device managed by Homey Pro or Homey Pro mini can be made accessible to HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, or Home Assistant as a Matter-native device. For Apple users, it means that devices not initially intended for HomeKit can now be incorporated into the Home app alongside other gadgets.

Significantly, this integration is not cloud-dependent; Homey functions locally, ensuring that automations and communications remain efficient and functional even when internet connectivity is lost. The Matter Bridge app continues this trend by securely presenting accessories to Matter controllers.

#### The Importance for HomeKit Users

Numerous users have committed to smart home devices over the years that do not support Matter. With the Homey update, older equipment such as Z-Wave door sensors, Zigbee light switches, and IR-based fans can now connect and display within the Home app, making them usable in scenes and automations.

HomeKit users can manage these devices through the Home app, Siri, Control Center, and automations. For example, you can connect an older IR-controlled fan to Homey and have it appear in the Home app as a Matter device. This integration fosters a more integrated smart home experience without the necessity to replace operational devices.

#### Positioning This in a HomeKit Environment

After setting up the Matter Bridge app on Homey, users can access the Matter Bridge section in Settings. Homey generates a QR code that can be scanned with Apple Home, allowing users to choose which devices linked to Homey they wish to unveil to HomeKit. This selective exposure enables you to integrate only the devices you prefer, keeping your HomeKit environment uncluttered.

The update is compatible with both Homey Pro and Homey Pro mini, giving you flexibility based on your home configuration. Homey already supports Zigbee, Thread, and Matter locally, and with the Matter Bridge, it introduces Z-Wave, Bluetooth, and infrared functionality, making it a thorough solution for incorporating older devices.

#### Use Cases for HomeKit Users

Here are several situations where the Homey Matter Bridge can greatly improve a HomeKit environment:

– Legacy Z-Wave contact sensors
– Functional Zigbee light switches
– 433 MHz blinds or shades
– IR-controlled window-mounted air conditioning units
– IR-based ceiling fans with remote controllers

Once these gadgets show up in the Home app, they can be added to scenes, triggered by motion, or included in morning routines, functioning like any other Matter accessory.

#### Conclusion

The Matter Bridge app for Homey Pro and Homey Pro mini signifies a major step forward in smart home technology. It provides HomeKit users with a viable solution to integrate older devices into their contemporary setups without necessitating hardware replacement. The update is presently accessible in the Homey App Store for existing users. For those aiming to consolidate various generations of smart home equipment under Apple Home, this is an enticing option.

You can buy the Homey Pro and Homey Pro mini from Amazon.

watchOS 26.2 Has Been Launched for Apple Watch: Fresh Features and Enhancements

**watchOS 26.2: Improvements to Sleep Score and New Safety Features**

Apple has officially rolled out watchOS 26.2, coinciding with the launch of iOS 26.2. This latest version introduces several significant upgrades, especially in the Sleep Score functionality and the addition of Enhanced Safety Alerts.

### Key Updates in watchOS 26.2

**1. Improved Sleep Score System**

One of the most notable alterations in watchOS 26.2 is the reworking of the Sleep Score evaluation system. The highest rating has been changed from ‘Excellent’ to ‘Very High,’ and the scoring ranges have been modified. Below is a comparison of the updated grading system against the previous one:

| Grade | iOS 26.2 | iOS 26 |
|—————|———-|———|
| Very High | 96-100 | 90-100 |
| High | 81-95 | 70-89 |
| OK | 61-80 | 50-69 |
| Low | 41-60 | 30-49 |
| Very Low | 0-40 | 0-29 |

Despite the alteration in terminology and scoring ranges, the fundamental metrics for the Sleep Score continue to focus on Duration, Bedtime, and Interruptions.

**2. Enhanced Safety Alerts**

Another key feature introduced in watchOS 26.2 is the Enhanced Safety Alerts. This feature is designed to keep users informed about potential hazards such as floods and other natural disasters. It delivers detailed information, including maps of affected zones and links to further safety resources, currently available in the United States.

**3. Bug Fixes and Regulatory Changes**

In addition to these new features, the update resolves a bug in Apple Music that could hinder tracks from progressing. Additionally, due to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), there are modifications affecting how iPhone and Apple Watch share Wi-Fi network information, which will impact users in the EU.

### How to Update

To download watchOS 26.2, users must first upgrade their iPhones to iOS 26.2. The update can be found through the Watch app on the iPhone under General ⇾ Software Update.

### Conclusion

The introduction of watchOS 26.2 brings valuable enhancements, particularly in sleep monitoring and user safety. As Apple works to improve its ecosystem, users can anticipate more updates that emphasize health and safety.

Apple Unveils macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 Update

### Significant Security Updates in macOS Sequoia 15.7.3

With the recent launch of iOS 26.2, Apple has also rolled out major updates for macOS Sequoia 15.7.3, concentrating on essential security improvements. This article details the main updates and emphasizes the necessity of preserving your system’s security.

#### Summary of Recent Updates

In recent weeks, while macOS Tahoe 26.2 betas received most of the focus, Apple has been developing several beta versions of macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.3. At this moment, only macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 has been officially launched, with macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 anticipated to become available soon.

#### Security Improvements

Throughout the beta testing stage, Apple underscored the importance of the updates in their release notes, mentioning:

>This update includes essential security improvements and is advised for all users.

For comprehensive details regarding the security aspects of Apple software updates, users are encouraged to access

iOS 26.2 Launches Innovative ‘AirDrop Codes’ Function: Understanding Its Operation

### iOS 26.2 Launches AirDrop Codes: A Fresh Approach to Secure Sharing

iOS 26.2 has been officially released, introducing a variety of new features, including a noteworthy upgrade to AirDrop called “AirDrop codes.” This innovative feature is designed to enhance the security and ease of sharing files, images, and more with others.

#### What Are AirDrop Codes?

AirDrop has long been a fundamental feature for iPhone users, facilitating quick and convenient sharing between devices. With the rollout of AirDrop codes in iOS 26.2, Apple introduces an additional layer of verification for users connecting with unfamiliar contacts. Per Apple’s release notes, AirDrop codes generate a unique code on the recipient’s device that the sender is required to input to finalize the transfer. This guarantees that only legitimate users can share files, boosting the overall security of the function.

#### Setting Up AirDrop

When configuring AirDrop on your iPhone, users have typically encountered three choices:

1. **Receiving Off**
2. **Contacts Only**
3. **Everyone for 10 Minutes**

The introduction of AirDrop codes effectively adds a fourth choice. If you wish to exchange files with someone not listed in your contacts, you can grant temporary access to each other using a one-time code. Once the sender inputs this code, both devices will recognize each other as AirDrop options for the following 30 days.

#### Managing AirDrop Connections

Users can handle their AirDrop connections via the Settings menu by going to **Settings ⇾ General ⇾ AirDrop**. Apple mentions that users will automatically be visible to each other for 30 days post sharing a one-time code. This capability is particularly beneficial for those who often share files with acquaintances without intending to permanently store them in their contacts.

#### Benefits of AirDrop Codes

The launch of AirDrop codes addresses certain limitations of the existing settings. The “Everyone for 10 Minutes” option significantly compromises security, while “Contacts Only” can be inconvenient due to the effort involved in creating a new contact. AirDrop codes offer a swift, simple, and secure method of sharing files, making it a more effective choice for users needing to transfer files without the complications of contact management.

#### Conclusion

With the debut of iOS 26.2, AirDrop codes signify a major advancement in the secure and convenient sharing of files by users. This new feature not only improves the user experience but also mitigates security issues related to sharing files with unknown contacts. As users become accustomed to this new capability, it will be intriguing to observe how often they take advantage of AirDrop codes for their sharing requirements.

Apple Releases iOS 18.7.3 Update for iPhone: Enhancements and New Features

Apple today has introduced two fresh software updates for the iPhone. In addition to the rollout of iOS 26.2, the firm has also delivered iOS 18.7.3 for those who have not yet transitioned to iOS 26.

### iOS 18.7.3 Arrives with ‘Significant Security Updates’ That Are Advised for Everyone

Recently, Apple designated iOS 26.1 as the standard update for iPhone users. Consequently, when users access the Software Update area in Settings, iOS 26 is the version prominently displayed. Nonetheless, users do have the choice to remain on iOS 18, and for those opting to do so, Apple has issued a new update today.

iOS 18.7.3 is now accessible for iPhone, alongside iPadOS 18.7.3 for iPad. Below are the release notes:

> This update offers significant security updates and is recommended for all users.

For details on the security features of Apple software updates, please check [Apple’s security notes website](https://support.apple.com/100100).

At the time of this article’s publication, the particular security updates have not been posted on Apple’s security notes website. However, they are expected to be available there shortly.

Since the release notes from Apple indicate no additional modifications, it is probable that iOS 18 users won’t observe any other changes in this update. Nevertheless, it is still advised for prompt installation to reap the security advantages.

Generally, when Apple identifies security weaknesses and resolves them, updates are provided not only in the latest OS iteration but also in the previous year’s release. This occurred with iOS 18.7.2 last month, and the same trend is evident in iOS 18.7.3.

Are you still utilizing iOS 18 on your iPhone? What is preventing you from moving to iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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macOS Tahoe 26.2 Launch: Major New Features and Enhancements

After several weeks of beta testing, macOS Tahoe 26.2 is now being distributed to the general public. Here’s a summary of the new features.

## New Edge Light Feature

macOS Tahoe 26.2 includes an innovative Edge Light feature, which introduces a virtual ring light on the Mac’s display during video calls. It is also compatible with online streaming platforms, enabling users to adjust the light’s intensity, width, and temperature.

When the cursor is hovered over the ring light, that area of the effect is dimmed, allowing users to quickly see what lies beneath it. This feature is exclusive to Mac models powered by Apple Silicon, and it includes an auto-enable option for Macs released after 2024 when in dim lighting conditions.

## New Low-Latency Cluster Feature

This update brings a new low-latency capability allowing users to link multiple Macs via Thunderbolt 5. Additionally, full MLX access is now available for M5 Macs, streamlining AI development and usage.

Many perceive this as another sign of the decline of the Mac Pro. Regardless, macOS Tahoe 26.2 enhances the Mac’s capabilities for professional users, although the feature might be too specialized for a significant portion of them.

## General Improvements

As is customary, Apple is addressing bugs and enhancing performance issues from the last version, along with implementing cross-platform upgrades, including the “Urgent” reminders feature, which is also being introduced today on iOS 26.2.

This feature allows users to activate an “Urgent” toggle when creating a reminder, which subsequently triggers the standard system alarm.

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