How to set up Apple TV, iPad, and HomePod as HomeKit hubs

While there are a mix of Apple devices that work as HomeKit hubs, there are some limitations to enable all of the available HomeKit features like automations, streaming HomeKit cameras remotely, and more. Follow along for how to set up Apple TV, iPad, and HomePod as home hubs.

As mentioned in an Apple support document, here’s the breakdown of what devices can handle the various HomeKit features:

• To set up automations, change user permissions, or stream HomeKit-enabled cameras remotely, you need a HomePod, an Apple TV 4K or Apple TV (4th generation) with the latest version of tvOS, or an iPad with the latest version of iOS.
• To control your HomeKit accessories remotely, you need a HomePod,² an Apple TV 4K, Apple TV (4th generation), Apple TV (3rd generation), or iPad.
• The device that you set up as a home hub must remain in your home, connected to your home Wi-Fi network, and powered on.

How to set up Apple TV, iPad, and HomePod as HomeKit hubs

Apple TV

1. Make sure your Apple ID has two-factor authentication turned on
2. Make sure iCloud Keychain is on (check your iOS device Settings → Your Name → iCloud → Keychain)
3. Once you’re signed in with your Apple ID under on your Apple TV under Settings → Accounts → iCloud it will automatically be set up as a HomeKit hub

You can check the status of your Apple TV as a hub in the Home app by tapping the  icon in the top left corner.

One last thing to keep in mind, 3rd gen. Apple TVs work with using HomeKit remotely, but don’t support automations.

iPad

1. Make sure you’re signed into iCloud with your Apple ID (Settings → Your Name → iCloud)
2. Make sure you’ve got iCloud Keychain turned on (Settings → Your Name → iCloud → Keychain)
3. Turn on Home Hub option under Settings → Home

HomePod

1. Once HomePod is set up, it is automatically added as a home hub
2. The only thing you may need to double-check is that the Apple ID you’re using for iCloud on the iOS device that you set up HomePod with is the same one you’re using for the HomeKit

For more help getting the most out of your Apple devices, check out our how to guide as well as the following articles:

• iPhone & iPad: How to completely disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• iPhone & iPad: How to change camera format for videos and photos
• iPhone: How to adjust the slo-mo camera settings
• iPhone: How to customize camera settings to shoot 4K video
• Apple Watch: How to enable notification privacy
• Mac: How to free up space with iCloud Photos optimized storage
• iPhone & iPad: How to AirPlay to multiple devices
• iPhone & iPad: How to free up space with iCloud Photos optimized storage

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