The race for smart home technology is heating up as Apple is reportedly making a move into smart home technology, by developing a software platform that would turn the iPhone into a remote control for home appliances. Apple is said to be in talks with smart home device manufacturers to certify their products for use with Apple’s devices, similar to the existing “Made for iPhone” label given to compatible accessories now. The initiative would be announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference on June 2, according to the FT, though it notes that the company tends to change its plans for WWDC at the last minute.
Apple is planning to introduce a smart home concept at its upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference, according to a report. The Financial Times says the company is planning to showcase a system that lets users control their lights, appliances and security systems with their iPhones when the conference kicks off June 2. The rumored introduction comes after Google purchased Nest Labs, a smart thermostat started by former Apple execs Tony Fadell and Matt Rogers, for $2.8 billion in January. A “select number” of device makers will be certified to offer products that work with Apple’s upcoming system, according to the report, which didn’t name any of the manufacturers. Apple could not be reached for comment. The company signaled its interest in the category in a June 2012 patent filling for a technology that connects lighting systems, security systems, garage-door openers, music controllers, climate controllers or kitchen appliances with mobile devices.