Apple has opened preorders for the first devices in its new Apple Home Collection, a line of smart home hardware co-developed with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric. The company announced the collection last month as part of a broader strategy to expand its presence in the smart home market. Delivery for the available items is expected to start between December 11 and December 17.
LG Devices Available for Preorder
Only a select number of accessories from the LG partnership are currently available for purchase on Apple’s online store. Customers can preorder the LG Outdoor Cam for $299.95, the LG Indoor Cam for $199.95, and the LG Video Doorbell for $249.95. All three items list an estimated shipping window of December 11 to December 17.
The HomeView smart display, which serves as the centerpiece of the new collection with its Siri AI capabilities, is also available for purchase starting today. This device anchors the ecosystem that Apple is building with its hardware partners.
Remaining Products Pending Release
Several other items in the Apple Home Collection are listed on the website but are not yet available for preorder. These products do not have an estimated ship date at this time. The pending items include the LG Floodlight Cam priced at $399.95, the LG Smart Deadbolt Lock for $349.95, and the LG Smart Thermostat for $199.95.
Schneider Electric also has two products in the pipeline. The Schneider Home Smart Thermostat is listed at $199.95, and the Schneider Home Room Sensor is priced at $39.95. Apple has not provided a timeline for when these specific items will open for preorder.
Setup and Connectivity Features
Apple states that the devices in the collection do not include exclusive features or functionality that are unique to the brand. Instead, the partnership focuses on simplifying the user experience. The setup process is designed to be as simple as tapping the device with an iPhone to get it running.
All devices in the Apple Home Collection utilize Thread technology to maintain connectivity. This allows the devices to remain connected even if they lose access to the internet or the primary Wi-Fi network. The system can also automatically update network credentials if a user changes their wireless network settings.
Source: The Verge
