Linksys today announced that its line of Linksys Velop Tri-Band mesh routers are now compatible with HomeKit, making good on a promise to introduce HomeKit support.
Unfortunately, support is being implemented on a rolling basis. A limited number of Velop Tri-Band users in the U.S. will be able to update their routers to add HomeKit support through a free firmware update made available in the Velop app for iOS and iPadOS.
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After the initial launch, a phased rollout will continue to bring HomeKit support to other users in the United States along with those in other countries.
With HomeKit integration, Linksys Velop routers will be able to be managed through the Home app on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, providing secure access to HomeKit-enabled accessories. There are options to define how each accessory is able to communicate within the home and through the internet.
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Through HomeKit, Velop users can choose to firewall off HomeKit accessories to prevent them from communicating with other WiFi devices on a home network and untrusted internet services to prevent hacking attempts and provide better security for connected home devices.
HomeKit-compatible Velop Tri-band model numbers that work with HomeKit include A03, WHW0301, WHW0301B, WHW0302, WHW0302B, WHW0303, and WHW0303B.
Linksys has been working on HomeKit support for some time. Back in February, the company mistakenly updated its website with information suggesting the HomeKit update would roll out in the near future, but Linksys later clarified that the launch timing was inaccurate.
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As for the other comments on systems:
I used Apple routers for years, holding on to 5-6 last gen AirPort Extreme Base Stations for as long as I could. After Apple announced they were dropping their Airport line (which still baffles me as Apple pushes further into IoT support and streaming services, I don't know why they simply didn't update to mesh systems or at least buy out a company and focus on their wireless systems - even adding wifi to the Apple TV and/or HomePod would be perfect). I tested every system you could possibly think of as I had time and didn't want to invest in something that would end up not being up to par, bricked/ruined with firmware updates as Netgear's systems, etc. From Ubiquiti Systems (AmpliFi HD to UniFi Pro), Netgear Orbi, Eero, to Linksys Velop Tri-Band (at the time Apple's only approved systems sold via Apple). Handsdown, the Linksys velop's won every time (using fiber optic gig). I read too many forums with owners of Netgear's Orbi having continuous problems after numerous firmware updates. AmpliFi HD was the only other system I was considering but Linksys nodes have ethernet for a backhaul and I wasn't crazy about plugin nodes.
I haven't owned a Linksys product since the 90's so I was VERY cautious. In fact, I was surprised to learn Belkin now owns Linksys. I'm also surprised more people don't seem to give the Velop's a chance. I know I know, everyone's mile varies. Just thought I'd lend some help.
Figures AmpliFi would get into the WiFi 6 market now after I went with Linksys although I have no regrets. Honestly, try the Linksys WiFi 6. Best Buy has them on sale for $599.99. I grabbed them last year when I saw them for $499.99 and they're compatible with my Velop Tri-band nodes.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/linksys-mx10-velop-ax5300-mesh-wi-fi-6-system-2-pack-white/6373231.p?skuId=6373231
I made use of BestBuy and other company return policies when testing out systems. Only the AmpliFi HD was one I couldn't return as it had a 14-day return window and I wanted at least 21 days or more of testing (sold it online for what I paid for it). BestBuy has 30 days, 90 days for Elite, etc members which made it much easier to test systems.
Hope my long posts help :)
And yes while it looks "cool" it does resemble the Xbox Series X. lol.