Apple Reportedly Partners With LG on Smart Home Devices

Apple is reportedly working with LG on a new group of smart home devices, including locks, thermostats, doorbells and home security hardware. Both companies are developing the products, but Bloomberg reported they are expected to carry LG branding.

The planned lineup includes a smart lock, thermostat, video doorbell, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a floodlight camera. The devices are designed to integrate with Apple’s upcoming smart home hub.

Apple’s smart home hub could arrive this month

Apple’s hub is reportedly scheduled to launch on Oct. 13 and is expected to feature a roughly 6-inch square display that can sit on a countertop or be mounted on a wall. Bloomberg previously reported that Apple is preparing a broader push into the smart home category around the device.

The LG-developed accessories are expected to be announced as early as next week, although their exact release timing has not been confirmed. Apple has also been preparing updates to its existing home hardware, with additional smart home-related products reportedly in development.

LG partnership expands Apple’s home strategy

The partnership would give Apple a route into categories already served by companies such as Amazon through Ring and other connected-home products. Instead of selling every accessory under its own brand, Apple appears to be working with LG on hardware designed to integrate closely with its home platform.

If the devices arrive as reported, Apple’s smart home lineup would extend beyond a central hub to include security, access, and temperature control.