Apple Launches Home Collection With Cameras, Locks And Thermostats

Apple’s new smart-home collection, developed with LG and Schneider Electric, pairs with its Home platform, though reports differ on some prices and release details.

Apple has introduced the Apple Home Collection, a range of smart-home devices developed with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric. The lineup includes security cameras, a video doorbell, a smart lock, thermostats and sensors. The products work with Apple Home and its new HomeView smart display, which TechCrunch says can control accessories and interact with apps.

Table of Contents
  1. What’s in the collection
  2. Setup, privacy and compatibility
  3. Prices and availability
  4. Sources

What’s in the collection

LG makes the indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbell, door lock and one thermostat, according to Engadget. Schneider Electric contributes another thermostat; Wired also lists a temperature sensor from LG and a room sensor from Schneider. The Verge describes the collection as Apple’s first set of co-developed devices for its Home platform, rather than accessories made independently by third parties.

The LG lock can detect a nearby iPhone or Apple Watch and unlock without a tap, while a keypad provides another way in, Engadget reports. The video doorbell has one camera aimed at visitors and another aimed downward at packages. It can also use a HomePod as a chime. The outdoor camera is offered with an optional motion-activated floodlight, and the thermostats can adjust temperatures during the day to help save energy, according to Engadget.

Setup, privacy and compatibility

Apple says the devices are intended to be easy to set up and use, The Verge reports. They appear in the Apple Home app without requiring separate accounts or apps from LG or Schneider, according to Wired. Engadget says setup begins by bringing an iPhone near a device and following onscreen prompts.

The reports also describe end-to-end encrypted communication. Engadget says collection devices other than the cameras and doorbell can work with other Matter-compatible platforms. The cameras and doorbell remain limited to Apple products because their video handling uses processes Matter does not currently support, the outlet reports.

Prices and availability

The outlets disagree on several prices. Engadget lists the lock at $249 and the doorbell at $349; The Verge puts the lock at $349 and the doorbell at $249. Engadget says the outdoor camera starts at $329, while The Verge lists a $299 model and Wired lists one at $300. The reports agree that the indoor camera is about $199 to $200 and the thermostats cost about $199 to $200.

Engadget and Wired say the collection is due in December, initially through Apple’s store, according to Engadget. The Verge, however, says Apple has not given a release date for the doorbell. The reports say products will be sold in the US and Canada, with cameras also coming to the UK; The Verge additionally lists the doorbell for the UK.

Sources

This story was compiled by AI from the reports below. Read the originals for the full details.