Apple is reportedly working with LG Electronics on a new lineup of smart home accessories, including a video doorbell, thermostat, smart lock and security cameras, as part of a broader push into the home.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, citing people familiar with the plans, the LG-developed products will work with Apple’s upcoming smart home hub, as well as a new HomePod mini and updated Apple TV set-top box. Apple’s own new devices are expected to be introduced on October 13 (one week from today), and it looks to happen by press release (or an embargoed launch partnering with influencers and media).
Sources told Gurman the LG lineup will include a smart deadbolt lock, indoor security camera, outdoor security camera, floodlight camera, video doorbell, thermostat and temperature sensor.
While Apple and LG worked together on development, the accessories will reportedly carry the LG brand, with LG handling manufacturing and product support. The arrangement gives Apple a way to expand its smart home ecosystem without producing and supporting every accessory itself.
The LG products are said to be running behind Apple’s own hardware and are not expected to reach consumers for at least several more months.
Recent regulatory filings have revealed product names including the LG Video Doorbell Wired, LG Floodlight Cam, LG Outdoor Cam Plug-In, LG Indoor Cam Plug-In, LG Smart Deadbolt Lock, LG Smart Thermostat and LG Temperature Sensor.
Many reportedly support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread and Matter. Apple already supports Matter across devices including the HomePod mini and Apple TV, giving compatible accessories a way to work across multiple smart home platforms.
These Apple smart home devices are going to have to be really good to get consumers to switch out their existing gear. Let’s wait and find out.
Gurman says Apple’s broader smart home push is intended as a reboot of HomeKit, with the company also planning future products including a privacy-focused home monitoring device, a smart home hub with a robotic arm, and an in-home security monitoring service.
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