HomeKit vs Google Nest solution: Pros and Cons of each app
There are two main differences between Apple Homekit and Google nest:
- Homekit runs on local Wi-Fi using a proprietary HAP protocol and requires each IoT-compatible device to include an MFi module, shipped by Apple in order to contact a control app on iPhone. Quite opposite, Google Nest works in the cloud and uses standard 802.11 g/n Wi-Fi features in Alphabet’s Weave to communicate between gadgets.
- Homekit is a proprietary solution, developed by Apple and working with quite a limited list of top-notch hardware and software brands. Google Nest is an open solution, allowing developers integrate their apps for a wide variety of IoT devices with the centralized control app.
Thus said, Apple follows a traditional approach — both customers and third-party developers should have as little access (and need for access) to the code, as possible. Everything is centered on usability and convenience, turning iPhone into a secure remote control device for all household appliances. Working over a specialized Wi-Fi protocol ensures data security and drastically lowers the chances of unauthorized access. In addition, low latency to the cloud server is not an issue, as all interactions between the devices happen locally.
The drawback of such approach is a relatively short list of supported home appliance models and vendors. However, this is the way Apple operates in general. Thus said, most of the users are accustomed to this behavior and choose security over diversity and ease of access.
Quite contrary, Google Home is an open solution, supporting hundreds of models of devices from a variety of manufacturers. It works with washing machines, ceiling fans, even pet feeders and baby monitors! However, most importantly, it works and connects over the cloud. All the setup and configuration is done server-side, in the cloud, and can be done wherever and whenever you are without the need to be at the site in person.
The downside here is the need for high latency Internet connectivity, which is not always available, at least for now. Data security is also a concern for many users, though cloud systems security has drastically improved with time.
Therefore, Google Nest would be a great choice for experimenters who aim at creating their unique smart home ecosystem, choosing from a variety of vendors and configuring apps the way they like — wherever and whenever they want.
Thus said, both Google Nest and Apple Homekit are decent choices. While one of them aims at security and intuitivity of usage, the other boasts the speed and simplicity of setup, configuration and adjustment of your smart home ecosystem.
Both systems are merely making their first steps at the moment. However, the provider that will meet the customer’s expectations best will ride the wave of success. Once the vast majority of consumers decides it’s time to make their homes smart — the great leap into the future and the Internet of Things. As for today, both Google and Apple grow their muscles, readying for that leap.
Comment