How to Add HomeKit Scenes to Control Center in iOS 18

Apple’s iOS 18 introduces a redesigned, modular Control Center that allows users to place individual smart home controls directly onto their swipe-down panel. By setting up dedicated HomeKit controls, you can trigger specific automation scenes—such as "Good Night," "Movie Time," or "Arrive Home"—with a single tap, bypassing the need to open the Home app or navigate through multi-device folders.

Step 1: Create Your Scene in the Home App

Before adding a control, ensure your desired scene already exists in HomeKit:

  1. Open the Home app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap the + (Add) icon in the top-right corner.
  3. Select Add Scene, name it, and configure the accessories you want included.
  4. Tap Done to save.

Step 2: Open Control Center Edit Mode

  1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open Control Center.
  2. Tap the + icon in the top-left corner (or tap and hold any empty space) to enter edit mode.

Step 3: Add the Home Scene Control

  1. Tap Add a Control at the bottom of the screen to open the controls gallery.
  2. Scroll down to the Home section.
  3. Select the single-accessory/scene control option (labeled as individual actions or scenes). Alternatively, you can search for "Home" in the search bar.
  4. The control will appear in your Control Center layout.

Step 4: Assign Your Specific Scene

  1. While still in edit mode, tap directly on the newly placed Home tile.
  2. A menu will appear displaying your available homes, accessories, and scenes.
  3. Select the specific Scene you want this button to activate.
  4. Adjust the size of the button if desired by dragging the bottom-right corner of the tile.
  5. Tap anywhere outside the edit interface or swipe up from the bottom of the screen to exit edit mode.

Step 5: Trigger Your Scene

Once configured, simply swipe down to reveal Control Center and tap the scene tile. The icon will illuminate or pulse to indicate the scene has been triggered, instantly adjusting your lights, thermostats, locks, and other HomeKit-enabled devices.