Apple is reportedly expanding its presence in the smart home market through a new collaboration with LG. The two companies are said to be working together on a range of smart home products, including a smart doorbell, smart lock, thermostat, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a floodlight camera. Unlike Apple’s existing Home products, these devices are expected to carry LG branding while offering deep integration with Apple’s Home ecosystem.
One of the most interesting products in the reported lineup is the LG smart lock, which is expected to support Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology. UWB could allow the lock to accurately detect the position of an authorized iPhone or compatible Apple device when the user approaches the door. The system is reportedly designed to combine Bluetooth authentication with UWB positioning, potentially allowing the door to unlock automatically when the user is recognized and within the appropriate range. The lock is also expected to support technologies such as Thread, NFC and Matter, along with features such as access codes, touch unlocking, a mechanical key backup and emergency power support.
The reported LG lineup could also include a wired video doorbell designed to work with Apple’s smart home platform. Security cameras are reportedly being developed for both indoor and outdoor use, while a floodlight camera could provide additional security around homes. LG is also said to be developing a smart thermostat with temperature and humidity monitoring, along with Thread, Bluetooth and Matter connectivity. A separate temperature sensor could allow users to monitor conditions in different rooms of their home.
The collaboration comes as Apple appears to be preparing for a much bigger push into the smart home market. Apple is expected to introduce a new smart home hub, an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV 4K at its October 13 event. The new home hub is reportedly designed to act as a central control point for smart home devices and could feature a display, allowing users to control accessories, interact with Siri and access other Apple services from a dedicated device.
Apple’s growing focus on smart home technology could bring together the iPhone, Siri, Apple Home, HomePod, Apple TV and third-party accessories into a more connected ecosystem. With Matter and Thread becoming increasingly important standards for smart home devices, the reported LG partnership could help Apple expand beyond its traditional HomePod and Apple TV-based approach.
The LG products are not necessarily expected to launch at the same time as Apple’s October 13 hardware. Reports suggest that the LG devices could arrive later, meaning Apple may first introduce its own smart home hardware before expanding the ecosystem with LG-branded accessories.
If the reports are accurate, the Apple-LG partnership could mark an important step in Apple’s attempt to compete more directly with smart home ecosystems from companies such as Google, Amazon and Samsung. The combination of Apple’s software, security and device ecosystem with LG’s experience in home appliances and electronics could give Apple a much broader presence inside the connected home.
