Apple launches a smart lock, doorbell and camera lineup

Apple is moving deeper into the smart home market. The company on Tuesday showed off its new Apple Home Collection, a line of connected hardware that includes a smart deadbolt lock, a video doorbell, a thermostat, a temperature sensor and a range of security cameras. The devices are designed to work with HomeView, Apple’s new smart home hub, which can be used to control connected accessories and interact with Apple’s software.

Apple says the devices were built in partnership with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric — a notable move for a company that has long sought to build and support every smart home accessory itself. The products will become available in December.

Pricing and specs for the initial lineup:

• Smart lock — $349.95. Supports ultra-wideband (UWB), a wireless technology that enables more precise proximity detection than traditional Bluetooth. That could let the lock recognize when an authorized user approaches and automatically unlock, cutting down on the need to pull out a phone or reach for a physical key.
• Video doorbell — $249.95 (wired). Lets homeowners see who’s outside, monitor visitors, and receive notifications when someone approaches. When the doorbell is rung, a chime will sound through devices like HomeView, HomePod, and HomePod mini, and users will also be notified on their iPhone or iPad.
• Floodlight camera — $399.95. Combines exterior lighting with video monitoring, part of a camera lineup that also includes indoor and outdoor cameras with live viewing, motion detection, intelligent alerts, and video storage.

The temperature sensor, meanwhile, can provide insight into conditions in individual rooms, helping users identify differences between areas and make adjustments.

Why it matters

The range could help Apple compete more directly with Amazon Ring and Google Nest, two established players in connected home security, and underscores that Apple is now willing to rely on outside hardware partners it once avoided.