This is How Apple's Smart Home Program Reportedly Works

Earlier this week it was reported that Apple was set to unveil a Smart Home platform at WWDC that would bring a deep integration throughout the home with Apple products. However, as it turns out, Apple's move into the smart home is not as big as initially expected.

According to sources familiar with the matter Apple is launching a simple program that will certify connected devices on the market (or soon to-be-launched) as products that are certified under the Made for iPhone label. The program will focus on easily connecting devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth -- but that will not include a software-based automation layer controlled by Apple. Earlier reports also hinted at the idea being similar to Apple's 'Made for iPhone' program but will reportedly have a new brand name and logo.

Instead of worrying about hubs and what might work with other devices, consumers can look for the MFi label and be assured that they can pull their smart home setup together — and control it from their iOS device. It’s technically possible that the user could control some device functions from a handset or tablet without opening the app, or that the app would open automatically based on a voice command or eventually through presence detection. That gets us a bit closer to magic and would be welcome for the consumer. The devices will require chips that are certified for the MFi program, including Apple’s Wireless Accessory Configuration (WAC), but those exist today.


In essence, Apple plans on rolling out a program with specific partners, devices and chips that support the MFi standard in an effort to help consumers purchase devices for their home that they know will work with their iOS devices.

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The WWDC keynote will kick off Monday at 10AM PST / 1PM EST. Stay Tuned via Twitter, Facebook, or RSS for updates ahead of and during the event. Apple is expected to unveil iOS 8, OS X 10.10, and possibly cheaper iMacs.