Apple’s upcoming smart home push will include a doorbell, smart lock, thermostat and other accessories developed with LG Electronics, according to a report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. The move will put Apple and LG in closer competition with Amazon’s Ring and Google’s Nest, which already offer similar smart home devices.
The products will be part of an ecosystem that works with Apple’s new smart home hub, an upgraded HomePod mini and a new TV set-top box.
The LG-developed lineup will include:
- LG Video Doorbell Wired
- LG Smart Deadbolt Lock
- LG Smart Thermostat
- LG Temperature Sensor
- LG Indoor Cam Plug-In
- LG Outdoor Cam Plug-In
- LG Floodlight Cam
Although Apple and LG have worked together on the accessories, the products will carry the LG brand, with LG handling manufacturing and product support. Apple has previously used a similar second-party supplier arrangement with companies such as Belkin and Logitech, allowing it to remain involved in design, features and engineering while partners handle production and support.
LG has recently sought regulatory approval for the devices from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and UL Solutions. The filings can reveal product names, specifications, features and drawings. However, LG has requested that photos and more precise details remain confidential until early next year. The filings do not mention Apple’s involvement.
The reported connectivity features include:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on many devices
- Thread and Matter support
- UWB on the smart deadbolt lock for auto-unlocking when users approach their door
For Apple, the new ecosystem will mark a formal reboot of HomeKit, its smart home platform launched in 2014. HomeKit has gained little traction compared with Amazon and Google’s offerings. Apple plans to use its smart home devices and Siri AI assistant as part of its strategy for the category.
For LG, the lineup expands its smart home portfolio. It includes the company’s first indoor camera in nearly a decade, along with its first outdoor camera, thermostat, floodlight camera and doorbell in recent history. LG is also selling its first smart lock outside South Korea.
Launch date?
Apple’s new smart home devices are set to be introduced on October 13, according to the report. However, the LG accessories have reportedly lagged behind Apple’s own devices and are not expected to reach consumers for at least a few more months. We could hear more about the accessories and their development as the launch approaches.