homekit - iPad control and is it worth it?

[phrehdd]

I am being very general and vague here as I really am unsure what the HomeKit has to offer. Ideally, I would like thermostat, doorbell/video, and have no idea what else it might be able to do.

Would an old iPad be a good home for the "hub?"...If so how far back can I go on iPad model? I also have an ATV available but would it be able to run headless? Any help would be appreciated. Again I know I am being vague but really would appreciate input from those who have a set up and can make recommendations.

cheers

Michael

 

[mpetrides]

I use an iPad mini 6 mounted magnetically to the side of my refrigerator to control the smart lights (mainly Phillips Hue lights) in all my rooms, to turn on/off the fan that is attached to a smart plug, and to lock/unlock the smart locks on my doors (latter done primarily at bedtime to ensure that they are locked before I go to bed).

I don't yet have either a smart thermostat or a doorbell with video but homekit compatible versions of those should work well with an iPad being used as a home hub.

 

[FreakinEurekan]

Home Hub heeds to be Apple TV or HomePod. iPad as hub was dropped from support several versions ago.