Apple brings cameras and hands-free locks to the home
Approach the new LG Smart Deadbolt Lock with a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch, and it can unlock without a tap. The lock is part of Apple's Home Collection, a smart-home range developed with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric. The lineup also includes cameras and thermostats, plus temperature sensors. Apple announced the collection on October 13, 2026. It described the devices as accessories designed for Apple Home, controlled through its home ecosystem. That includes HomeView, HomePod and HomePod mini. Apple TV 4K is supported too, according to its Home Collection announcement.
Sales are due to start in December 2026 through Apple's online and retail stores. Some devices will not arrive until early 2027. The collection extends Apple's hardware push beyond phones, a theme also covered in this iPhone hardware report.
One app handles setup and control
Owners set up the devices with an iPhone using NFC, then manage them in the Apple Home app. Separate manufacturer apps and accounts are not required. The accessories support Thread and Siri. They can join automation scenes and update network settings automatically when home Wi-Fi details change. For example, a scene can lock the door and activate cameras when the last family member leaves. Heating can switch to energy-saving mode as part of that same routine.
Apple says Home app data is protected by end-to-end encryption and cannot be accessed by Apple, LG Electronics or Schneider Electric. Video is processed on an Apple home hub or through Private Cloud Compute. Some features require a compatible hub. Supported options include HomeView and HomePod. Apple TV is another option.
LG is supplying four cameras: a wired video doorbell, a floodlight camera, an outdoor plug-in camera and an indoor camera. They record at up to 2.5K. The cameras can identify people and familiar faces. They can also recognize pets and vehicles, as well as packages. The wired doorbell combines a 2.5K visitor camera with a Full HD package camera. Outside, the floodlight model offers color night vision. The plug-in camera has an adjustable tilt. Indoors, the camera raises its lens for remote viewing and lowers it when the first family member returns.
Subscriptions add video history and AI search
Built-in storage lets each camera keep recording during temporary Wi-Fi outages. Live feeds appear in the Home app on iPhone and iPad. They are also available on Mac and Apple TV 4K, as well as HomeView. With an eligible iCloud+ plan, users can access up to 10 days of event recordings. The 50 GB plan supports one camera; 200 GB supports up to five. The 2 TB plan supports an unlimited number.
On compatible plans, Apple Intelligence can describe video events and find clips through natural-language searches. Those features also require a compatible iPhone or iPad. A home hub running the latest software is required too. Camera limits for individual AI features depend on the subscription.
The deadbolt accepts an Apple Home Key tap and a keypad PIN. It also has a mechanical key. LG says Ultra Wideband detects an authorized user nearby so the lock can open hands-free. Tap-to-unlock is supported, and a concealed emergency key slot provides another way in. The lock records door openings and closings. It flags tampering and sends a warning if the door stays open. Guests can receive temporary access through Apple Home. With the LG Video Doorbell, users can view and speak to visitors, then unlock the door in the app or with Siri. Matter and Aliro support basic local lock operations without an internet connection, according to LG Electronics.
LG and Schneider Electric are supplying thermostats that adjust temperatures around occupancy and bedtime, along with other routines. Room sensors measure conditions in individual rooms. They work alongside readings from sensors in HomeView and HomePod. HomePod mini also has sensors. In the continental United States, Clean Energy Guidance can shift heating and cooling to periods when electricity is cheaper and cleaner, provided the household has a compatible rate plan.
US prices start at $199.95 for either thermostat. The LG Indoor Cam Plug-In also costs $199.95. The wired doorbell is $249.95, while the LG Outdoor Cam Plug-In costs $299.95. The LG Floodlight Cam is priced at $399.95. The deadbolt costs $349.95. The LG Temperature Sensor and Schneider Home Room Sensor each cost $39.95. Mounting accessories are sold separately.
LG cameras will be sold in the United States and Canada. They will also be available in the UK. The lock, thermostats and sensors are intended for the United States and Canada. Apple will offer paid professional installation through ADT in the United States. European launch dates and prices have not been announced. HomeView will not be sold in the EU for now because Siri AI is unavailable there.
