Apple’s new smart home line includes a smart lock, thermostat and video doorbells

Apple is taking the smart home space seriously. The company introduced its new Apple Home collection on Tuesday, which includes a new smart deadbolt lock, video doorbell, thermostat, temperature sensor and a range of security cameras.

The new devices are designed to work with HomeView, the company’s new smart home hub, which can be used to control connected accessories and interact with Apple’s software.

This new line of smart home accessories could help Apple better compete with Amazon Ring and Google Nest, two established players in connected home security. Products will be available in December.

Apple says the devices were built in partnership with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric — an interesting move for the company, which has long sought to build and support all smart home accessories itself.

The smart lock, priced at $349.95, stands out for its support for ultra-wideband (UWB), a wireless technology that allows for more precise proximity sensing than traditional Bluetooth. This could allow the lock to recognize when an authorized user approaches and automatically unlock the door, reducing the need to remove a phone or reach for a physical key.

The $249.95 wired video doorbell, meanwhile, will allow homeowners to see who’s outside, monitor visitors and receive notifications when someone approaches their property. When someone rings the bell, a chime will sound on Apple devices like HomeView, HomePod, and HomePod mini. Users will also be notified on their iPhone or iPad.

As for the temperature sensor, it can provide insight into the conditions in each room, helping users identify temperature differences between zones and make adjustments.

For security purposes, Apple is also introducing indoor and outdoor cameras, as well as a floodlight camera ($399.95) that combines outdoor lighting and video surveillance. The camera line includes features such as live viewing, motion detection, smart alerts and video storage.