Apple has confirmed a collaboration with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric on a new collection of connected home devices, expanding its presence in home security and climate control.
Announced on 13 October 2026, Apple Home Collection includes cameras, a video doorbell, a smart door lock, thermostats and temperature sensors. Availability begins in December, with some accessories following in early 2027.
From reported plans to an official announcement
The announcement follows early October reports that Apple and LG were jointly developing connected household products. At the time, Bloomberg reporting, covered by 9to5Mac, identified doorbells, locks and cameras as part of Apple’s planned expansion.
Simpler control through Apple Home
Apple says the accessories can be paired using an iPhone and managed through its Home app without separate accounts or applications.
LG’s smart lock supports automatic unlocking as a user approaches with a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch. The thermostats can adjust temperatures around household routines, while the camera range covers indoor and outdoor monitoring. Apple says Home data is protected with end-to-end encryption.
A bigger push into connected homes
The collection signals a more direct role for Apple in a category where it has long depended on third-party accessories.
As The Verge reports, the company is offering customers a curated starting point for building a connected home. However, it faces established competition from Amazon and Google, whose devices already occupy millions of households. Winning over those customers will require the promised simplicity to translate into a convincing everyday experience.
South African availability remains unclear
US pricing starts at $199.95 for LG’s indoor camera and $349.95 for its smart lock. Apple lists initial availability across selected North American and UK markets, depending on the product.
South Africa is not included in the announced launch markets, and the release provides no local pricing or launch date.
