If you can't add a smart home accessory to the Home app

Learn what to do if you don't have the Add Accessory option, or if you have another issue adding an accessory in the Home app.

Check requirements and recommendations

If you don't have the Add Accessory option

If an alert says that the accessory was already added

If an alert says "Unable to add to home"

If an alert says that the network is incompatible

If an alert says that an accessory is not supported

If you can't add a Matter accessory

Check requirements and recommendations

• You need an iPhone or iPad to add accessories to the Home app. You can't add accessories with a Mac.

• Update your iPhone or iPad.

• Turn on Bluetooth in the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.

• Check the accessory manual to see if the accessory needs additional hardware, software updates, or additional setup in the manufacturer's app.

• Make sure that your accessory works with Apple Home, HomeKit, or Matter.

• Make sure that your iPhone or iPad, previously added accessories, and home hubs are on the same Wi-Fi network.

If you don't have the Add Accessory option

Ask the Home Owner to edit your permissions in the Home app. Tap or click the More button then select Home Settings to access a list of shared home users. The list includes the Home Owner, Residents, and Guests.

To allow a Resident to add accessories, the Home Owner must tap or click the Resident from the list, then turn on Add and Edit Accessories.

If an alert says that the accessory was already added

If an alert says that the accessory was already added to your home, or the accessory was previously used in another home, you may need to reset the accessory. Check the accessory manual, contact the manufacturer, or visit the manufacturer's website to learn more.

If an alert says "Unable to add to home"

1. Make sure that the accessory is powered on.

2. Bring the accessory closer to the router for setup.

3. Unplug any third-party bridges and all home hubs (HomePod, HomePod mini, and Apple TV), then plug them back into power.

4. Reset the accessory. If you need more help, check the accessory manual, contact the manufacturer, or visit the manufacturer's website to learn more.

If an alert says that the network is incompatible

Check that your iPhone or iPad is connected to a Wi-Fi network that supports the 2.4 GHz standard. Some accessories aren't compatible with 5.0 GHz networks.

If an alert says that an accessory is not supported

The accessory may need a firmware update. Download the manufacturer's app for the accessory and install the latest firmware. Check the accessory manual, contact the manufacturer, or visit the manufacturer's website for more help.

If you can't add a Matter accessory

Set up a home hub. If you have an iPhone using iOS 18 or later, you can add Matter accessories to and control Matter accessories from the Home app without a home hub. However, a home hub is recommended for the best experience.