Apple is working with LG Electronics on smart home accessories that will integrate with the upcoming home hub and other Apple home products, reports Bloomberg.
LG is making a wired video doorbell, thermostat, smart deadbolt lock, temperature sensor, indoor security camera, outdoor security camera, and floodlight camera, according to documents LG submitted to the Federal Communications Commission and UL Solutions. Apple is not mentioned in the filings, and LG asked the FCC to keep details confidential. The devices will be built and branded by LG, though Bloomberg says Apple helped develop them.
This arrangement with so-called second-party suppliers gives Apple a way to quickly expand its ecosystem without shouldering the full cost and complexity of producing and supporting a wide range of accessories. Apple can also help shape the products' design, tailor their features and oversee engineering while keeping the work largely under wraps.
While Apple is expected to introduce the rumored home hub, a new Apple TV 4K, and a new HomePod mini on October 13, the LG accessories won't be ready to launch for a few months.
Several of LG's devices support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread, and Matter, with the lock also offering UWB support for close-proximity auto-unlocking.
Apple has worked with LG frequently. It uses LG Display components in its devices, and when Apple didn't sell Apple-branded displays, it teamed up with LG for 4K and 5K UltraFine monitors made for Macs. LG is not known for smart home accessories, but it bought a majority stake in smart home platform Homey in 2024. LG may be aiming to compete with Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Ring, Google Nest, and other smart home brands.
