The third-party Controller for HomeKit app’s new version 5.4 update adds something users have wanted for a while. It’s a full backup and restore process that includes the HomeKit codes identifying the devices and accessories you include in your home automation.
Handy HomeKit codes
That’s right, now you can store those eight-digit HomeKit codes right in Controller as part of the updated backup and restore process.
That being the case, when you go to reconnect something — a smart plug, a light, a camera — the code you need will be right there when you need it. HomeKit codes are not always easy to find, so it’s good that every Controller backup will have all the codes.
Is your backup out-of-date?
Version 5.4 also helps you manage things as you add devices to your HomeKit operation. A new backup status feature shows you if your newest backup is still up-to-date. That’s helpful in case you’ve made recent changes and want to make sure they’re backed up.
Save and restore scenes and automations
With HomeKit, you can program multiple devices to operate or change via Scenes and Automations functionality. For example, various lights might turn on at dusk or and turn off at bedtime. A lot of that can be seasonal, featuring, say, holiday lighting or poolside accessories.
A new function in Controller for HomeKit 5.4 lets you archive and restore scenes and automations. So now you can archive your St. Patrick’s Day settings — for your leperchaun lights and your green-beer fountain — and bring them back next year.
Controller for HomeKit: Other changes
- Guides on how to replace accessories and migrate your home to another Apple ID
- Performance and reliability improvements
- iBeacon support
- New options to trigger automations
Price: free for existing users; free 1-week trial for new users; Pro subscriptions are $1.99 a month, $8.99 annually or $26.99 for a lifetime license.
Where to download: App Store
