The Internet of Things may turn out to be primarily an Apple thing, based on a recent update of Apple TV that includes support for HomeKit, sparking some bewilderment among developers.
Released earlier this month, Apple TV Software beta 2's release notes include mention that the update offers "support for Family Sharing and can be used for testing AirPlay and HomeKit with your iOS apps."
Developers were quick to pick up on this story on Twitter, with some sounding intrigued by the connection between the two.
Well look at this. AppleTV gets HomeKit support in latest beta update. http://t.co/tPA1bTNVlZ
— Nate Peel (@emullet) October 8, 2014
Others seemed somewhat stumped or confused by Apple's latest strategy.
Puzzled as to why isn't Apple TV a HomeKit device itself. Wonder if that changed with the latest beta. http://t.co/hCMYW3hqy9
— Luis Abreu (@lmjabreu) October 8, 2014
What exactly is the homekit stuff in Apple TV, is it an app ?
— Rob Sammons (@robertsammons) October 8, 2014
Not everyone was scratching their heads, of course. Some seemed to feel Apple was sticking to a logical game plan.
This is how I guessed it would work "@cultofmac: Apple TV HomeKit integration will create hub for smart home http://t.co/K17XKHtcfY"
— Adam Dempsey (@AdamDempsey) October 7, 2014
For some developers, though, there was a feeling that Apple may be moving too far outside the areas where it is an established leader.
Using AppleTV to monitor your smart lightbulb instead of playing games? Greeeaaatt move Apple #parforthecourse http://t.co/BzOLRK3atp
— Jamie Perkins (@inorganik) October 9, 2014