Chamberlain blocks smart home integrations with its garage door openers — again
Source: The Verge
Overview
The MyQ garage door controller is an accessory that can connect Chamberlain Group garage door openers to the MyQ app. The MyQ platform used to support more smart home integrations, but has increasingly become focused on those that require subscriptions.
Garage door opener manufacturer The Chamberlain Group has updated the MyQ firmware, effectively blocking third‑party controllers that rely on older, undocumented APIs. This move forces users who previously used aftermarket solutions—such as Home Assistant, OpenHAB, or custom scripts—to either revert to the official MyQ app or find workarounds that may no longer function.
The update appears to be part of a broader trend among smart‑home device makers to tighten control over their ecosystems, often citing security and reliability concerns. Critics, however, argue that it limits consumer choice and hampers the open‑source community’s ability to innovate.
What’s Changing?
- Firmware Update: The latest MyQ firmware disables the undocumented API endpoints that third‑party integrations previously accessed.
- App‑Only Control: Users are now required to manage their garage doors through the official MyQ mobile app or the Chamberlain website.
- Potential Workarounds: Some users report that older hardware or devices that haven’t received the update may still function, but these are not guaranteed long‑term solutions.
Community Reaction
- Home Assistant Users: Many have expressed frustration, noting that the integration they relied on for automations is now broken.
- Security Concerns: While Chamberlain cites security improvements, some experts argue that closing off APIs does not necessarily make devices safer and can push users toward less vetted solutions.
- Calls for Transparency: The smart‑home community is urging Chamberlain to provide an official, documented API for developers.
What Can You Do?
- Check Firmware Version: Verify whether your MyQ controller has received the latest update. If it hasn’t, you may still have access to third‑party integrations.
- Consider Official Alternatives: Use the MyQ app for basic control, or explore Chamberlain’s own smart‑home integrations (e.g., with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa).
- Stay Informed: Follow community forums and the official Chamberlain support channels for any potential API releases or future updates that might restore third‑party compatibility.