Apple is reportedly taking a fresh approach to the smart home market by working with LG Electronics on several new connected devices.
The reported partnership covers products such as a video doorbell, smart lock, thermostat, temperature sensor and security cameras. These accessories are expected to work with Apple’s long-rumored smart home hub.
However, the LG-made devices are not expected to arrive immediately. They could launch several months after Apple introduces its upcoming smart home platform.
Apple Prepares a Bigger Smart Home Strategy
Apple entered the smart home accessories market with HomeKit in 2014. However, the platform struggled to match the adoption achieved by Amazon and Google.
Initially, Apple required HomeKit-compatible products to include a proprietary MFi chip. Manufacturers later found the requirement too restrictive, prompting Apple to replace it with a software-based approach in 2018.
Now, Apple reportedly plans another major push into connected home technology. The company is expected to begin that effort on October 13.
Apple could reportedly unveil a Siri AI-powered smart home hub on that date. The launch may also include updated versions of the HomePod mini and Apple TV.
LG Will Manufacture and Support the New Devices
Apple and LG reportedly worked together on the upcoming accessories. However, the products are expected to carry the LG brand rather than Apple’s.
LG will reportedly manufacture the devices and provide product support. Meanwhile, Apple can influence their design, features and engineering without handling every stage directly.
Apple has previously followed a similar approach with companies such as Belkin and Logitech. Therefore, the reported LG partnership could expand Apple’s smart home ecosystem while keeping manufacturing responsibilities with its partner.
Seven LG Smart Home Products Emerge
Regulatory filings have revealed seven upcoming LG smart home products. The listed devices include:
- LG Video Doorbell Wired
- LG Floodlight Cam
- LG Outdoor Cam Plug-In
- LG Indoor Cam Plug-In
- LG Smart Deadbolt Lock
- LG Smart Thermostat
- LG Temperature Sensor
LG has reportedly requested that product photos and additional details remain confidential until early next year. Importantly, the regulatory filings do not mention Apple’s involvement.
That means the reported connection between Apple and these products comes from separate information about the companies’ collaboration.
Images Reveal More About the Smart Lock and Sensors
A leaker known as pdfu on X later shared images claiming to show LG’s upcoming smart deadbolt lock, thermostat and temperature sensor.
However, the origin of those images has not been confirmed. According to the leaker, the smart lock features a rotating keypad and a swivel pin.
The swivel pin could limit the lock’s rotation on one side. As a result, it may help prevent the lock from hitting a wall.
The reported settings include controls for the touchpad light ring, door-left-open audio alarm and lock sound volume. The lock is also reportedly designed to support automatic unlocking and tap-to-unlock.
Additionally, the device is said to offer emergency power and master codes. These features could provide users with several ways to operate and manage the lock.
The temperature sensor reportedly measures both temperature and humidity. It also has a magnetic rear surface for attachment to metal.
For other surfaces, the sensor reportedly includes an adhesive-backed metal plate. This would allow users to mount it in different locations around the home.
Matter, Thread, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Could Connect the Devices
Most of the upcoming LG accessories are expected to support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. They are also expected to work with Thread and Matter.
Matter and Thread are designed to make smart home devices easier to use across different ecosystems. Apple already supports both technologies on some of its existing products.
However, Thread-enabled Matter accessories require a compatible Thread border router. Certain HomePod mini and Apple TV models can provide this functionality.
Supported third-party hardware can also serve as a compatible Thread border router. Therefore, the reported LG accessories could offer broader connectivity while fitting into Apple’s smart home environment.
LG Smart Lock Expected to Support UWB
LG’s reported smart deadbolt lock could also support ultra-wideband, or UWB technology.
This capability could allow the lock to unlock automatically when a user approaches with a compatible device. The device could remain in a pocket or on a wrist during the process.
Apple already uses UWB technology in several recent products. These include iPhones, Apple Watches, HomePods and AirTags.
The reported accessories could therefore give Apple a broader range of closely integrated smart home products. At the same time, Matter support could allow them to work across other smart home platforms.
Apple’s reported partnership with LG consequently points toward a wider smart home strategy. While Apple would remain closely involved in the ecosystem, LG would handle manufacturing and product support for the accessories.
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