LG Electronics has collaborated with Apple to develop seven next-generation Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This expansion builds on LG's existing AI home ecosystem, which has been centered around AI appliances and the 'ThinQ' platform, now incorporating home IoT devices such as cameras and door locks.
On October 13, LG Electronics held a product launch event in Manhattan, New York, where it unveiled the IoT devices that integrate with both companies' AI home platforms. Attendees included Do-young Kwak, Vice President and North America Regional Head of LG Electronics, and Matthew Costello, Vice President of Apple Hardware Engineering.
The new products include two types of cameras (indoor and outdoor), a doorbell, a door lock, a thermostat, and a temperature sensor. They are set to be released in North America, including the U.S. and Canada, as well as the UK by the end of the year.
By combining LG's expertise in residential space and manufacturing capabilities with Apple's platform-based user experience, both companies participated in the joint development from the initial planning stages.
This collaboration marks a significant expansion of their partnership, moving beyond device integration to include home IoT hardware.
The new devices will be compatible with LG's AI home platform, 'LG ThinQ,' and the Apple ecosystem. Users can easily connect them with mobile devices like iPhones and iPads for status checks and remote control.
The thermostat analyzes user location, time zone, and weather through iPhones and Apple Watches to adjust heating and cooling. It also utilizes information collected from sensors in different spaces.
The door lock employs multiple sensors to detect user movement and intent, allowing it to unlock without manual operation. It sends mobile alerts if the door is left open, tampered with, or if unauthorized access is detected.
Both the indoor and outdoor cameras, along with the doorbell, feature 'Vision AI' technology, which distinguishes between people, animals, vehicles, and packages, providing context-appropriate notifications. The indoor camera can also detect unusual sounds, such as a baby crying or glass breaking.
Privacy protection features have been enhanced. When a user returns home, the indoor camera automatically switches to privacy mode. LG's security solution, 'LG Shield,' and Apple's data encryption technology are also integrated.
Through this product launch, LG Electronics aims to broaden its AI home business scope. Previously, the ecosystem was centered around AI appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, along with the AI home hub 'ThinQ ON' and the 'ThinQ' platform. By adding IoT devices responsible for access, security, and climate control, the range of interconnected devices within the home is expanded.
LG plans to leverage the integration with the Apple ecosystem to expand its customer base. Apple has over 2.5 billion active devices worldwide. This collaboration allows LG to reach not only its own appliance customers but also users of iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches, broadening the touchpoints for AI home services.
Jung Ki-hyun, Vice President of LG Electronics' HS Platform Business Center, stated, "We will provide a safe and intuitive AI home experience by combining LG's expertise in appliances and home spaces with Apple's user experience and both companies' security capabilities."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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