Apple TV in Home Automation?

The way your home works is changing, and the source might already be next to your TV. Anyone interested in home automation, especially when it comes to making it accessible, seems to be excited about Apple's new HomeKit technology. Originally shown off in 2014 along with a preview of iOS 8, it promises to integrate any "smart" device that uses the HomeKit technology into your iPhone and iPad.

In theory, this could be a real game changer. Apple has a way of making things very simple and easy to use, but we haven't seen any real world examples of HomeKit in action. At this year's CES, we started to see some devices that use HomeKit being teased TechHive has a great roundup of some of these. But most HomeKit gadgets aren't even shipping yet. However, we do know one tiny, yet important detail about HomeKit: The Apple TV will play a big part in it.

That's right, the set top box that Apple has constantly referred to as a "hobby" will play a key role in its home automation strategy. If you're at home, you'll be able to control any HomeKit devices you have with your iPhone or iPad, even using Siri to give voice commands. The Apple TV doesn't play a part in that. But if you want to control your devices from outside your home network,  the Apple TV will act as a bridge between you and your devices back home.

So if you're planning on investing in HomeKit devices for your home, the Apple TV looks like it could be a very worthwhile investment. And as of right now, it's one of the only HomeKit devices you can buy.