Pilot app icon Pilot Home Automation for iPhone

Pilot vs Domoticz Web

Why a native app beats a web interface for daily Domoticz control

The Domoticz web interface works well on desktop, but on iPhone it means pinching, zooming, and waiting for page reloads. Pilot is a purpose-built native iOS app that gives you instant access to every Domoticz device with real-time updates, offline caching, and deep Apple ecosystem integration.

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Native App vs Web Interface

Real-time updates via WebSocket

Pilot uses a persistent WebSocket connection to your Domoticz server, so every switch toggle, dimmer change, and sensor reading appears instantly. The web interface relies on periodic polling, which introduces delays of several seconds between state changes and what you see on screen.

Offline access and caching

As a native app, Pilot caches your device layout, room structure, and last-known states locally. You can browse your setup even when your phone temporarily loses connectivity. The web interface requires a live connection to your server for every page load and shows nothing when offline.

Apple Watch companion

Pilot includes a dedicated Apple Watch app so you can control lights, scenes, and switches directly from your wrist. The Domoticz web interface has no Watch equivalent, meaning you always need to reach for your phone or open a browser.

Home screen widgets

With Pilot, you can add WidgetKit-based widgets and iOS 18 Control Center toggles for your most-used devices. One tap from the home screen or lock screen is all it takes. The web interface requires opening Safari, navigating to the correct URL, and waiting for the page to load.

Push notifications

Pilot delivers instant push notifications for Domoticz events: door sensors, motion alerts, temperature thresholds, and more. The Domoticz web interface has no built-in push notification support on iOS, so you only see alerts when the page is actively open.

Siri Shortcuts and voice control

Pilot integrates with Siri Shortcuts, letting you trigger scenes and control devices with your voice or through Shortcuts automations. The web interface offers no Siri integration, so voice control is not an option without a native app layer.

FAQ

Is Pilot the only iOS app for Domoticz?

Yes, Pilot is the only third-party native iOS client for Domoticz. It is specifically designed to provide a fast, reliable mobile experience for Domoticz users on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.

Can I use Domoticz on my iPhone without Pilot?

Yes, via the web interface in Safari, but it lacks native features like Apple Watch, widgets, and push notifications. The web UI was designed for desktop browsers, so the mobile experience involves more scrolling, smaller tap targets, and no system-level integration.

Does Pilot replace the Domoticz web interface?

No, Pilot complements it for daily mobile control while the web UI remains available for configuration. Use the web interface for setting up devices, scripts, and server settings, then use Pilot for fast, everyday switching and monitoring on the go.