On June 2nd top executives from Apple will take the stage to deliver a keynote address. They’re expected to make major software related announcements including but not limited to iOS 8 and OS X 10.10. If a new report is to be believed then at WWDC 2014 Apple may also unveil an iOS smart home platform. This would mark the start of Apple’s first foray in the home automation sector.
Basically what a smart home platform would allow users to do is control various appliances, home lighting and security systems. It would be similar to Apple’s “Made for iPhone” program in which the company allows third parties to develop products that are compatible with its iOS devices.
The Financial Times reports that other companies will be allowed to make products specifically compatible with the new iOS smart home platform. However those products will be required to pass quality checks and adhere to certain privacy limitations. The report doesn’t explain exactly how the home automation features will work and if existing devices will be able to access them, the possibility exists that the platform might only be supported for Apple’s upcoming devices.
FT does note that nothing is set in stone at this point in time and it is possible for Apple to make changes at the very last minute, so we really have to wait until WWDC 2014 to find out for sure if Apple is stepping into home automation.
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