Apple To Work With LG For Other Smart Home Appliances

Apple is set to collaborate with South Korean electronics giant LG to produce a range of smart home devices, according to Bloomberg. The partnership aims to create products such as a doorbell, thermostat, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a smart deadbolt lock, all to be integrated within Apple's HomePad ecosystem. Bloomberg cites unnamed sources indicating that these devices will be part of an ecosystem with HomePad at its center.

Currently, there is no set timeline for the release of the standalone devices, but Apple is planning to unveil the HomePad on October 13. It is expected that LG will manage manufacturing and provide product support, with Apple handling engineering, design, and feature customization. Apple has previously engaged in similar collaborations with companies like Belkin and Logitech.

Apple will oversee the engineering and product design, while LG will focus on manufacturing and product support. The devices will incorporate smart home protocols such as Thread and Matter, as well as WiFi, Bluetooth, and ultra-wideband (UWB) where applicable. LG has obtained regulatory approval from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for these products, which include items like the LG Video Doorbell, Wired Floodlight Cam, Outdoor Cam Plug-In, Indoor Cam Plug-In, Smart Deadbolt Lock, Smart Thermostat, and Temperature Sensor.

However, the details of these products remain confidential as the company has requested LG to keep the designs and specifications under wraps until early next year. Interestingly, none of the listed products explicitly mention Apple's involvement.