Roku streaming boxes and sticks are an excellent way to enjoy the most popular apps and services without investing in Apple’s pricey option. And thanks to HomeKit integration, you can get most of the Apple TV’s smart home features at a fraction of the cost. We’ll show you how to set up and use Apple HomeKit with your Roku device.
What You’ll Need to Add Your Roku to HomeKit
With just a few clicks of your Roku remote and taps in the Home app on your iPhone, you’ll be on your way to HomeKit convenience. However, you’ll need a few things before you can get started.
First, verify that your streaming box or stick is compatible with Apple HomeKit. Most Roku streamers are supported, but we suggest looking atRoku’s official compatibility listto ensure your device is capable.
Next, your Roku must be up-to-date with the latest software. You can check for updates by going toSettingson your device, thenSystem, and thenSystem Update. While technically, any Roku running at least Roku OS 9.4 will work, updating to the latest release will make the entire setup process smoother.
Finally, you’ll need toupdate your iPhoneso that it is on the latest version of iOS. If you meet all these requirements, you can now add your Roku to Apple HomeKit.
How to Set Up HomeKit on Roku
Screenshot/Photo by Christopher Close – No attribution required
To add your Roku to Apple HomeKit, first, grab your remote and power on your TV. From the Roku main menu, navigate toSettingsand click the OK button on your remote.
Now, highlight and clickApple AirPlay and HomeKit.Next, scroll down and then clickSet Upunder HomeKit.
After a brief moment, your Roku will display the HomeKit pairing code for your device. From here, pairing your Roku works similar to how youadd a smart home product to Apple HomeKit.
On your iPhone, launch the Home app, then tap theAdd buttonnear the top right corner of your screen. TapAdd Accessoryto bring up your iPhone’s camera, then scan the code on your TV.
Next, tapAdd to Home, assign it to a room, then tapContinue. Give your Roku a name using your iPhone’s keyboard, then tapContinueagain.
At this point, the Home app may offer automation suggestions. If desired, tap the toggle next to an automation, then tapContinueonce more. Finally, tapDoneto complete the setup process.
How to Use the Home App and Siri With Your Roku
After adding your Roku to HomeKit, you now have access to several convenient control options. One is Siri voice commands, where you can use Apple’s virtual assistant on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and HomePod, to turn your Roku on or off.
To use Siri to control your Roku, simply say, “Hey Siri, turn on the living room TV.” Of course, this phrase will vary depending on your Roku’s name and location within your HomeKit home.
You can also now use the Home app on your Apple devices to control your Roku. Through the Home app, you can toggle power with a tap through the device settings screen just like using a HomeKit accessory.
Additionally, you cancreate HomeKit scenes in the Apple Home appand put your Roku togood use with automation. For example, a scene can power on your Roku, dim the lights, and close the blinds, while an automation can turn off your streamer automatically at night.
How to Control Your Roku Through Control Center
Adding your Roku to HomeKit also unlocks Control Center integration on your iPhone. To access Control Center, swipe down from the top of your screen if you have a phone with Face ID or from the bottom if it has a Touch ID button.
Next, tap the Remote icon to bring up a list of compatible TVs and set-top boxes in your home. If you don’t see the Remote icon, you’ll need tocustomize Control Centeron your iOS device.
Once your Roku appears, tap it to bring up a virtual remote for your device. From here, you can utilize the direction buttons to navigate your Roku and toggle power without opening another app.
Unleash Your Roku’s Smart Home Potential With Apple HomeKit
Connecting your Roku to Apple HomeKit gives you access to a host of smart—and convenient— features. Now you can control your Roku with Siri voice commands, Home app automation, and Control Center built into your iPhone and iPad.
