How to Share HomeKit Access with Family Members

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
Apple ID for all users, iCloud Keychain enabled, Apple Home app

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Open the Home app settings

    Launch the Home app on your iPhone or iPad. Tap the More button represented by a three-dot icon inside a circle, located in the top right corner of the screen.

    Note: Ensure you are the primary user or owner of the Home to send invitations.
  2. 30 sec

    Access Home settings

    Select Home Settings from the overflow menu. If you manage multiple homes, select the specific residence you wish to share before proceeding.

  3. 30 sec

    Invite participants

    Scroll down to the People section and tap Invite People. Enter the email address or phone number associated with the recipient's Apple ID, then tap Send Invite.

    Note: The invited user must have an iCloud account active on their device.
  4. 1 min

    Define remote and editing permissions

    After sending the invitation, tap the user's name to modify their permissions. Toggle Allow Remote Access to let the user control devices from outside the home, and toggle Add and Edit Accessories to allow device management.

  5. 30 sec

    Verify invitation receipt

    The recipient must open the Home app on their device. A banner will appear at the top of the Home tab; tap View to accept the invitation and gain access to the smart accessories.

    Note: Invitations are tied to the recipient's Apple ID and cannot be forwarded.