Apple, LG Partner on Smart Home Devices Set to Debut October 13

Apple (AAPL) is expanding into smart home hardware through an atypical partnership with LG Electronics to develop doorbells, thermostats and other accessories, Bloomberg reported. The devices are slated for an October 13 unveiling alongside a new smart home hub, upgraded HomePod mini and a new TV streaming box. The co-developed lineup includes smart door locks, indoor and outdoor security cameras and floodlight cameras, according to people familiar with the unannounced plan. Products will be sold under the LG brand, with LG handling manufacturing and support, mirroring Apple's approach with Belkin and Logitech. LG has filed for approvals with the FCC and UL Solutions, disclosing seven accessories: a wired video doorbell, floodlight camera, plug-in outdoor and indoor cameras, smart lock, smart thermostat and temperature sensor. Many support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread and Matter, with the lock adding ultra-wideband auto-unlock. The LG accessories lag Apple's own devices and are at least months from launch. Apple and LG declined to comment.