HomeTech.fm Episode 562 - Goodbye HomeKit, Hello OpenClaw
Feb 13, 2026
They debate creepy AI in a Ring Super Bowl ad and privacy concerns around camera footage. They unpack Texas Instruments buying Silicon Labs and what that means for smart-home radios. Apple killing the old HomeKit architecture and required hub changes gets a deep dive. SwitchBot’s new AI hub, OpenClaw routing, and where image analysis happens spark a privacy and safety discussion.
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Episode notes
Ads Trigger Privacy Awareness
- Ring's Super Bowl ad made users notice AI features they'd ignored, creating public backlash about privacy.
- Big ads can amplify unease when products already have expansive camera networks.
Big Chip Merger Reshapes Smart-Home Radios
- Texas Instruments buying Silicon Labs consolidates major smart-home radio stacks under one chipmaker.
- That acquisition could reshape protocol availability and vendor strategy across the industry.
Upgrade HomeKit Architecture Immediately
- If you use HomeKit, upgrade your home's architecture now to avoid device failures after Feb 10, 2026.
- Ensure hubs run supported OS versions and move from iPad hubs to Apple TV or HomePod if required.