With the last iOS 16.2 version, Apple introduced the option of converting the HomeKit smart home software to a new architecture that, among other things, also enables the new Matter protocol for cross-manufacturer communication between devices. This update could be initiated in the Home under Updates.
However, this point is no longer available, not even under macOS Ventura on the Mac. The reason will be that many users had many problems after initiating the update process. Either users could no longer be added, devices could no longer be addressed, Secure Video was no longer available, or the whole process hung completely. So anyone who had hoped to be able to easily upgrade a laboriously created ecosystem with all their own automations was often wrong.
So now the update is no longer possible. Everyone who has switched so far will stay with the new architecture – going back is not possible. Apple will now likely have to do some follow-up work because the impact of the update has been catastrophic for many users. We’ll have to wait and see when Apple releases an update to upgrade.
March 2023 iOS, OS ,Homekits Updates Issues
APPLE HAS BRICKED HOME KIT Security Cameras
APPLE SUPPORT ONLY CAN SAY SORRY, NO FIX!!
Apple Homekit will not work any longer on Mac’s, running Monterey version 12.6.4 (not sure what other OS’s are effected)
Once you do the latest up dates
HomeKit displays a grey screen with: THIS MAC CAN NO LONGER VIEW THIS HOME..HOME REQUIRES SOFTWARE THAT ISNT COMPATIBLE WITH THIS MAC. Called Apple support no fix is available. APPLE HOMEKIT IS BRICKED
IF YOU DO THE CURRENT SOFTWARE UP DATES BEWARE YOU NO LONGER CAN USE HOMEKIT ON THE MAC
Yes it still works on your other smaller Apple devices
Security Cameras
But viewing Homekit compatible security cameras (I Have 6) requires a Mac screen no longer an options
Im sure this effects hundreds it not thousands of users, future cameras buyers
The Mac still works perfect but, why should we have to buy a new Apple Mac just for HomeKit
Hi Gus,
sorry to hear that. During the upgrade process, the app should have warned you that some devices need an update. That means for your Mac that it must be on macOS Ventura. But let me give you one tip: try to install macOS Venture via the OpenCore Legacy Patcher (make a BACKUP before!). That normally runs very smooth and you should get access to the cameras again.
And yes, Apple’s support of Home Kit is not really reliable.
Thanks for the reply and info.
My info
Mac Book Pro Retina 13 inch early 2015
Mac OS Monterey 12.6.4
2.7 ghz dual core intel core i5
Graphic intel iris 6100 1536 mb
Will the Open Core Legacy Patcher work on it.
Also as company we do smart home automation and have many homes that have older Macs OS and use Homekit.
We have home’s using apple products on Home Kit HomePod mini’s, Apple TV, iPads , iPhones and the Macs (many use the Macs as a larger screen to view the cameras) all those devices require the update as well
Should we tell them not to upgrade any apple devices, don’t want them to have the same issues.
Thanks for all your help, its most welcome
Hi Gus,
yes, the 2015 MacBook Pro is perfectly capable. You’ll enjoy how good it runs!
Yes, do not let them upgrade. If you do not use matter but are based purely on Home Kit with older devices (for example with older Macs as you said or with an iPad as a hub) do not do the upgrade to the new architecture. You will loose all devices not running iOS 16, macOS Ventura and iPad Hubs (although running iOS 16). So keep it Home Kit only – Matter devices are not that common yet, you will not miss out on too much.
And beware: once they updated to the new architecture, they cannot go back!