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To remove and re-add a Matter accessory, open the accessory in the Home app, scroll to its settings, and tap Remove Accessory. Then reset the device using the manufacturer’s instructions and add it again from Home using Add > Add Accessory. Removing it from Home does not necessarily reset the physical accessory or erase every Matter connection, so choose the removal scope carefully.
Remove the accessory from the Home app
- Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap the accessory’s tile to open its controls, then open its settings.
- Scroll down and tap Remove Accessory, then confirm if prompted.
If Home does not offer Remove Accessory, Apple advises removing the accessory through the manufacturer’s app instead. The exact app steps depend on the device and its maker.
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Know what you are removing
Removing an accessory from its Home tile is not the same as deleting its Matter information or disconnecting it from other services. In Settings > General > Matter Accessories, Apple provides separate controls for the accessory’s Keychain record and for its connections to services.
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| Removal scope | Effect |
|---|---|
| Accessory in Home | Removes it from the current Home setup. It does not, by itself, guarantee that the device has been reset or removed from every connected service. |
| One connected service | Removes that service’s access, so the app associated with that service can no longer control the accessory. |
| All connected services | Removes access for every associated app or service. |
| Matter record in iCloud Keychain | Deletes the stored Matter record. This is distinct from removing access for one service or all services. |
Use the narrowest removal option that solves the problem. Removing access from all services or deleting the Keychain record can affect other apps and connections beyond Apple Home.
#1 Best Overall
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The M3 is a versatile hub supporting Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, enabling Aqara-exclusive scenes and signals to sync with Matter ecosystems such as Home Assistant for seamless integration. Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices （** Not third-party Zigbee devices) and 127 Thread devices (Repeaters are needed).
- [Edge Compatibilities and Local Automations] The M3 serves as an Edge Hub, prioritizing local control and automation. Upon integration, it supersedes existing Aqara hubs, shifting the automations among them to local operation (Some cloud-based notifications still require internet). Upgrade-friendly, it supports migrating Zigbee devices from older Aqara hubs.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Optimal Wired and Wireless Connectivity] Offering both wired and wireless solutions, the smart home hub M3 provides dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) with advanced WPA3 security, and a Power over Ethernet (PoE) port. The addition of a USB-C port allows for mini-UPS and power bank connections, delivering unparalleled stability. (2A USB power adapter is not included. ) . Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M3 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- [Privacy-Focused with Encrypted Storage, Easy Setup and Versatile Placement] The M3 prioritizes privacy by excluding microphone or camera components. It boasts 8GB end-to-end encrypted local storage, for device lists, configuration parameters, and automation configuration data. Additionally, it includes a mount and screws for flexible placement on flat surfaces, walls, or ceilings. Magic Pair technology ensures effortless detection by the Aqara Home app upon power-up.
Reset the device before adding it again
After removal, follow the manufacturer’s reset instructions for the exact make and model. Apple’s troubleshooting guidance says to reset the accessory according to the manufacturer’s instructions before adding it to Home again. There is no universal Matter reset-button sequence: the controls and timing vary by device.
If the accessory was previously paired to another app or home, its maker’s instructions may also explain how to clear that setup. Do not assume removing its Home tile has cleared the device’s pairing state.
Rank #2
- Multi-Protocol Smart Hub with Matter Bridge – The M100 is a versatile smart hub compatible with Thread devices and Aqara Zigbee (** Not third-party Zigbee devices), supporting up to 20 Aqara Zigbee devices and 20 Thread devices. As a Matter Bridge, it connects Aqara Zigbee products to other smart home ecosystems, compatible with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Home Assistant, etc. Note: Use a 5V⎓0.5A power adapter (not included) and keep the product continuously powered during use.
- Advanced Matter Bridging for Seamless Smart Home Integration – The M100 enables Aqara’s unique features, such as facial recognition and complex automation, to work across Home Assistant and other Matter ecosystems. Expand your smart home with Aqara or third-party Matter devices (requires a Matter-enabled hub). Currently supports lights, thermostats, plugs, switches, buttons, and various sensors (motion, light, door/window, temperature/humidity), with more devices to be added in the future.
- Local Automation for Reliable Performance – Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond-level response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notification, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
- Flexible Power & Small Size – Features a universal USB-A port for power and data, allowing connection to power banks, wall outlets, PCs, or routers for a simple and quick setup. The Hub M100's shaft can be adjusted within a 210-degree range, making its placement extremely flexible.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 for Faster & Security—This product supports a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 wireless network connection, which enables more efficient connections with advanced WPA3 security. Wi-Fi 6 ensures smoother performance even in high-traffic environments, allowing multiple devices to connect without compromising speed or reliability. Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M100 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
Add the Matter accessory to Apple Home again
- On an iPhone or iPad, open Home.
- Tap Add > Add Accessory.
- If the Matter accessory was previously paired to another app, tap More options and select the accessory when it appears.
- Follow the onscreen setup steps. When prompted, assign the accessory a room and name.
If Apple Home cannot add it
Work through these checks in order. The exact error message can point to a reset or connection problem rather than a defect in the accessory.
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- Check the basics: Use an updated iPhone or iPad, turn on Bluetooth, and confirm that the accessory is compatible with Apple Home.
- Check the maker’s setup requirements: Consult the manual for any required hardware, firmware update, or initial setup in the manufacturer’s app.
- If Home says “already added”: The accessory may still have an old pairing state. Reset it using the maker’s instructions, or contact the manufacturer if the manual does not resolve the warning.
- If Home says “Unable to add to home”: Confirm the accessory has power, move it nearer the router, restart any third-party bridge and home hub involved, and reset the accessory using the manufacturer’s directions.
Do you need an Apple home hub?
Apple says an iPhone running iOS 18 or later can add and control Matter accessories in Home without a home hub, and recommends using a hub for the best experience. That does not mean every Matter accessory has the same network requirements: Thread devices have additional conditions.
Rank #3
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The Aqara Hub M200 is a versatile smart hub that supports multiple advanced features, acting as a Matter Controller, Thread Border Router, and Matter Bridge. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. With advanced Matter bridging functionality, it syncs Aqara-exclusive features with ecosystems like Home Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home for seamless integration. Supports up to 40 Aqara Zigbee devices and 40 Thread devices.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Wired & Wireless Connectivity with PoE Support] Enjoy flexible setup with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) using advanced WPA3 security, and Power over Ethernet (PoE), making the M200 a versatile PoE Ethernet Smart Home Hub. The USB-C port supports mini-UPS or power bank connections for uninterrupted operation, ensuring your energy-saving and security automations stay online. (*2A USB power adapter is not included. )
- [Home Automation and Alarm System] Works with all Aqara devices to create a comprehensive, smart home automation system. The Aqara Hub M200 is equipped with a built-in speaker that can be used in a variety of ways: security alerts, doorbell, alarm clock, and custom audio messages. (** 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝-𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐙𝐢𝐠𝐛𝐞𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬)
- [Local Automation for Reliable Performance] Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notifications, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
For a Thread accessory, Apple identifies a Thread-enabled hub or a compatible third-party Thread border router as relevant network equipment. Local Thread pairing support also depends on supported iPhone and software combinations. Check Apple’s current compatibility guidance and the accessory maker’s setup instructions for your device.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Recover an unresponsive third-party Thread accessory
For an unresponsive third-party Thread accessory, Apple’s troubleshooting sequence is to disconnect its power for 5 minutes, reconnect it, and then wait 10 minutes for the Thread network to stabilize. This timing is Apple’s specific guidance for that Thread troubleshooting case, not a reset procedure for every Matter accessory.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
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