Hive Hang Persists Despite Repeated Adds

Hive keeps freezing during setup - HA loops endlessly on "Initialising," requiring a full restart every time. Users report the same deadlock, even after cleaning old instances. Why does this integration resist stability? The problem isn’t just outdated firmware; it’s a clash between Hive’s protocol and Home Assistant’s expectations. Key facts: Hive relies on Zigbee, but HA treats it like a smart bulb, ignoring hot water control. Here is the deal: Hive expects a specific firmware version and firmware handshake, yet HA version 2026.3.2 still fails to recognize it properly. But there is a catch: Hive’s full feature set - especially water heating - only activates when paired through a dedicated bridge, not HomeKit. Here’s the secret: HomeKit integration strips Hive to lighting only, hiding its core value. For safety and function, avoid HomeKit and use the native integration or direct Zigbee setup. Users who bypass HomeKit gain full access - no lag, no hangs. The bottom line: Hive works best when treated not as a smart bulb, but as a full heating partner. Do you understand why this mismatch stalls setup? Always verify firmware and skip HomeKit if hot water control matters - your home should heat like it should, not hang like a browser tab stuck in loading.