Troubleshooting Why My Tapo/Kasa Devices Not responding in Apple Home App?
This Article Applies To
Tapo/Kasa HomeKit and Matter models
Background
The Tapo/Kasa devices that support HomeKit or Matter can be configured and controlled directly through the Apple Home app. Remote management of these smart devices is often necessary in our daily lives, such as when we forget to turn off lights after leaving home. This involves using the Home app over mobile data or non-home WiFi networks for control, which is considered remote management.
Issues with control typically arise during remote management attempts. Before troubleshooting, it's essential to understand how remote management is achieved through the Apple Home app.
Requirements for Remote Management in Apple Home
To remotely manage smart home accessories in the Apple Home app, you need the following:
- Home Hub Device: A home hub device, such as a HomePod, acts as a bridge between your smart home accessories and your iPhone.
- Same Apple ID: Ensure both your home hub device and iPhone are logged in with the same Apple ID.
- iCloud Settings: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud, tap "Show All," and turn on "Home."
How does the remote control work via Apple Home app?
- When you ask Siri to turn on the light, "Hey Siri, turn on the light", or tap the light button in the Home app, the command sends to the Apple cloud server.
- Apple cloud server sends the command to your home network over the internet.
- Your router delivers the command to your home hub device, such as a HomePod.
- The home hub device relays the command to the smart bulb via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Therefore, if you encounter issues with controlling devices in the Home app, it is crucial to check the status of your home hub device and its communication with your Tapo/Kasa devices.
Common Reason for Remote Control Failures
1. No Home Hub Devices
Despite some HomeKit devices can be configured without Apple home hub devices, to achieve remote management, adding a home hub like Apple TV or HomePod to the network is necessary.
2. Tapo/Kasa Devices Not Connected to the Same Wi-Fi Network as Home Hub
The direct device for controlling smart devices is the home hub. If the hub and smart devices are on different networks, they won't be able to communicate with each other, resulting in unresponsive controls on the Home app.
Troubleshooting Suggestions
If you encounter similar issues, follow these troubleshooting steps:
1. Ensure Hub is Functioning and Up-to-Date.
Check whether the Apple home hub (e.g., HomePod, Apple TV) is powered on and stays connected to the local network. Always make sure the home hub has the latest software updates.
2. Ensure Devices and Hub are on the Same Wi-Fi Network
Make sure your Tapo/Kasa devices and hub are on the same Wi-Fi network to enable proper communication. Avoid connecting to guest Wi-Fi, as it often restricts direct communication between devices.
3. Use the Same Apple ID for Control
Ensure your home hub device and iPhone are logged in with the same Apple ID, and add Tapo/Kasa devices and the hub to the same home in the Apple Home app.
4. Restart Hub and Tapo/Kasa Devices
Restarting the hub and devices can resolve intermittent network issues.
Case Sharing |
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A user successfully configured a Tapo P125M plug in the Tapo app and Apple Home but found it unresponsive in the Home app while being controllable in the Tapo app.
2. Check Communication Between Tapo/Kasa Device and Hub
3. Reconnect Apple TV
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