How to Share Access to Smart Home Devices

Learn how to securely grant smart home device access to family and guests using HomeKit and shared home settings. Follow our simple, step-by-step guide.

1. Open the Home app. Launch the Home app from your home screen. Ensure you are signed in with the Apple ID that serves as the primary owner of the Home configuration.
2. Access Home Settings. Tap the More (...) icon located in the top-right corner of the screen. Select Home Settings from the overflow menu to manage participants.
3. Invite a user. Tap Invite People. Enter the recipient's Apple ID email address or phone number, then tap Send Invite. The user must accept the invitation from their own device's Home app.
4. Configure user permissions. Once the user accepts the invite, tap their name in the Home Settings menu. Toggle Allow Remote Access if you want them to control devices while away from the home network.
5. Confirm device availability. Have the invited user open their Home app to verify that the shared home appears. Check that the assigned devices respond to their commands within the interface.