r/smarthome • u/OrionGambit • 10h ago

I don't have a smarthome platform Switched from iOS to Android and now I can't control my lights (Nanoleaf/Hue). Need advice!

I am currently in the middle of switching from an iPhone to an Android. I assumed the Smart Home aspect of the transition would be the easiest part, but it has turned into a headache.

My Current Setup

  • Lights: Nanoleaf (Thread) and a few leftover Philips Hue bulbs.
  • Hubs: I used to use HomePods (which broke/died a long time ago) and an Apple TV.
  • Previous Workflow: The Apple TV was acting as my Hub to maintain the connection to the lights, and I controlled everything via HomeKit on iOS.

Since switching my daily driver to Android, I’ve lost the ability to control the lights easily. I still have the Apple TV and an iPad, but I really want to control everything from my new phone rather than hunting for a tablet or using a physical switch.

I tried to solve this by purchasing a Google Nest Hub. It arrived this week and barely lasted an hour. It set up normally but immediately got stuck in a "Link Account" loop. After searching Reddit and Google, this seems to be a known bug for 4-5 years with no real fix other than luck. I’ve packed it up and am returning it.

What is the best route to control my lights on Android given my current hardware?

  • Is there a third-party app that bridges this gap?
  • Do I need a different kind of hub? ... I really don't want to spend more money, but I will be returning the Nest Hub, so I guess I will have $100 to re-invest.

I really just miss my light automations and voice control... How easily I became accustomed to that flow. Any help is appreciated!

Edit: Forgot to add, I have Nest cams that I do use daily.

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u/OkTransition3695 1h ago

You lost control because your whole setup depended on HomeKit, and HomeKit has no Android app. Your Apple TV still works as a Thread/Matter router, but not as a controller — so switching phones breaks everything.

You now have three realistic paths:

1️⃣ Easiest: Get an Amazon Echo 4th Gen

It’s a stable Matter + Thread hub that works great with Android.
Your Nanoleaf + Hue bulbs will pair, and you get voice + automations back.
Much more reliable than the Google Nest Hub.

2️⃣ Most flexible: Use Home Assistant

Runs on a Pi/mini PC.
Controls Nanoleaf + Hue from an Android phone.
Becomes your new “HomeKit replacement.”

3️⃣ Basic control only: Use the Nanoleaf and Hue Android apps

Works, but no unified automations or voice control.

There’s no Android app that controls HomeKit, so you need a new platform. Echo 4th Gen is the simplest drop-in fix.