When I was in college, smart home technology was still something that was super futuristic.Today, that’s changed a lot.If I were starting college today, though, I’d bring a few HomeKit items to make dorm life more comfortable and functional.
Between cramped desks, bad overhead lighting, and shared everything, a little automation can go a long way.Whether it’s turning off lights from bed or checking if your fan’s still running, here’s what I’d pack today if I were heading off to campus.Some of my favorite gear Aqara Smart Lock U50 Upgrade your doors with Apple Home Key and the Aqara U50.
HomeKit smart plug: the dorm essential that does it all If you’re only bringing one smart home accessory to campus, make it a HomeKit smart plug.You can turn lamps, fans, or even a coffee maker on and off from your iPhone or with Siri.It’s perfect for those late-night study sessions when you’re too tired to get out of bed to kill the light.
The Eve Energy is a solid pick, but Meross has budget-friendly options that still work great and also supports Matter.Desk fan This new SwitchBot fan punches way above its weight.It’s battery-powered, USB-C rechargeable, and surprisingly quiet even at night.
It’ll work beside your bed, on your desk, etc.If you add the SwitchBot Hub, it will connect right to your HomeKit setup over Matter.Some of my favorite gear eufyCam 2C Upgrade your home security with wireless cameras that includes HomeKit compatibility.
HomeKit cameras and HomeKit Secure Video are worth it even in a dorm If you’re living with a roommate or sharing a suite, a HomeKit camera can give you some peace of mind.You can even share the camera with your roommate as well.Maybe you just want to know if someone’s been in your room or monitor valuable items when you’re not there.
Either way, a small indoor camera that supports HomeKit Secure Video is an easy win.HomeKit Secure Video keeps the footage encrypted and stored in iCloud+.You can even set it only to record when no one’s in the room.
With the right setup (you need a HomeKit Hub), you can also check your room from your iPhone.Here are some good options: Aqara 2K Indoor Security Camera E1 eufy Security Indoor Cam C120 Aqara 4MP Camera Hub G5 Pro WiFi Eve Cam Smart bulbs Most dorms come with lighting that’s way too bright .Swapping in a HomeKit-compatible smart bulb can make a huge difference.
You can set the brightness exactly where you want it, which is perfect for late night studying without lighting up the entire room..You can even set up a simple scene for study mode so your light automatically dims when it’s time to cram for an exam.If you have a desk lamp, these bulbs are perfect for that as well.
Some of my favorite gear Abode Home Security System Abode is the best home security system and includes compatibility with HomeKit.meross Smart RGBWW WiFi LED Bulbs Matter Smart Light Bulbs Aqara Thread/Zigbee Smart LED Light Bulb T2 E26 Wrap up Dorm life is all about making the best of tight spaces and sharing spaces with a roommate.A few HomeKit accessories can go a long way toward making it feel more like your own space.
You don’t need to go overboard or spend a ton of money.Start with the basics, like an Eve smart plug or a HomeKit bulb, and build from there.With the right setup, your dorm can be smarter, more comfortable, and just a little more fun to live in.
You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day.Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop.Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel
