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How To Control Your Shades With An Iphone Or Ipad

March 17, 2022

Electric shades and motorized blinds are the ultimate in convenience, with operation as easy as pressing a button. Thanks to technological advances, privacy and light control is at your fingertips, allowing you to open and close motorized shades installed on any windows including hard-to-reach ones located behind furniture and even on high windows and skylights. Plus, when your window coverings professional brings together two of the most reliable names in the home automation business, you can even control your motorized shades with an iPhone or iPad. Automation makes managing various aspects of your home easier, and names like Lutron Caséta Wireless and Somfy are each known individually for their cutting-edge contributions to home management. At Alluring Window, we’ve incorporated both to work with our custom-made electric shades and blinds. The best part is, when we install Somfy myLinkTM and you download the app on your iPhone or iPad, you can operate your motorized shades from anywhere–from across the room, across town, or any place there’s an Internet connection.

Why Control Your Shades with an iPhone or iPad?

Smart window treatments offer a range of benefits beyond just convenience. Here’s why controlling your shades with an Apple device is a game-changer:

1. Ultimate Convenience

With a simple tap on your iPhone or iPad, you can adjust your shades from anywhere in your home or even remotely while away. No more struggling with cords or manually pulling down shades—automation simplifies your daily routine.

2. Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings

Smart shades help regulate indoor temperatures by blocking excessive heat during the summer and retaining warmth in the winter. With Apple HomeKit automation, you can schedule your shades to open and close at optimal times, reducing heating and cooling costs.

3. Enhanced Privacy & Security

Control your shades remotely to create the appearance of an occupied home, adding an extra layer of security. Additionally, automated settings ensure privacy by adjusting your shades at night or when needed.

4. Seamless Integration with Smart Home Systems

Using Apple HomeKit, you can synchronize your shades with other smart home devices, such as lights and thermostats, for a fully automated home experience.

Choosing Compatible Motorized Shades

Before you start controlling your shades with your iPhone or iPad, it’s essential to choose motorized shades that are compatible with Apple HomeKit or other third-party apps. Some of the top brands that offer HomeKit-compatible smart shades include:

Lutron Serena Shades – One of the most popular choices, offering seamless integration with Apple HomeKit and other smart home ecosystems.

Somfy Smart Shades – These shades work with HomeKit through third-party hubs, providing high-quality motorization.

Hunter Douglas PowerView Shades – Although not natively compatible with HomeKit, they can be controlled through the PowerView Hub and integrated with Siri Shortcuts.

IKEA Fyrtur Shades – A budget-friendly option that supports HomeKit integration for smart shade control.

Setting Up Smart Shades with an iPhone or iPad

Once you have compatible motorized shades, follow these steps to set up and control them with your Apple device:

1. Install and Connect Your Smart Shades

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install your motorized shades.
Ensure the shades are powered correctly (either through batteries or a wired connection).
Connect the shades to the appropriate smart hub if required.

2. Add Your Shades to Apple HomeKit

Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
Tap the “+” icon and select “Add Accessory.”
Use your device’s camera to scan the HomeKit QR code on the shade’s hub or controller.
Follow the prompts to name your shades and assign them to a specific room.

3. Control Your Shades Using Siri

Once your shades are set up in HomeKit, you can use voice commands with Siri. Try these commands:

“Hey Siri, open the living room shades.”
“Hey Siri, close all bedroom shades.”
“Hey Siri, set the kitchen shades to 50%.”

4. Create Automation & Scheduling

Automation allows you to control your shades based on time, temperature, or other smart home triggers. To set up automation:

Open the Home app and tap Automation.
Select Create New Automation.
Choose a trigger, such as “At sunset” or “When I leave home.”
Select the shades you want to automate and set their preferred position.
Save and activate the automation.

5. Use Third-Party Apps for Enhanced Control

Some manufacturers offer their own apps for more detailed customization. For example:

Lutron App – Provides advanced scheduling and scene settings.
PowerView App (Hunter Douglas) – Allows for remote control and scene creation.
Somfy TaHoma App – Works with HomeKit to manage motorized shades and other smart devices.

Optimizing Your Smart Shades Experience

To get the most out of your motorized shades, consider the following tips:

1. Group Shades for Simultaneous Control

If you have multiple smart shades in one room, group them in the Home app to adjust them all at once.

2. Integrate with Other Smart Home Devices

Pair your shades with smart lights, thermostats, or security cameras for a fully automated home experience.

3. Use Geofencing for Automatic Adjustments

Set up geofencing in the Home app to open or close your shades when you arrive or leave home.

4. Regularly Update Firmware & Apps

Keep your shades’ firmware and related apps updated to ensure optimal performance and security.

Final Thoughts

Controlling your shades with an iPhone or iPad is a simple and effective way to enhance comfort, energy efficiency, and security in your home. With Apple HomeKit integration and smart automation, you can effortlessly manage natural light and privacy with just a tap or voice command. Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or energy savings, motorized shades are a perfect addition to any smart home setup.

Ready to upgrade your home with smart shades? Explore top brands like Lutron, Somfy, and Hunter Douglas to find the perfect fit for your space. With the power of Apple technology, transforming your home has never been easier!