Apple’s upcoming smart home push could bring a new way to control accessories from an iPhone, with code findings pointing to proximity-based controls designed for the LG products Apple reportedly helped develop.
Code researcher pdfu says a feature called “Proximity Control” will allow an iPhone to recognize supported accessories when it is brought close to them. According to the findings shared on X, the Dynamic Island could then surface a shortcut to open controls for devices such as thermostats, while cameras and video doorbells could show a camera viewer.
The feature would give Apple’s closely integrated Home accessories a more immediate interaction than opening the Home app and searching for the relevant device manually.
A separate discovery points to an even more unusual setup process. Pdfu says the LG accessories could use NFC to begin HomeKit pairing before they are powered on.
An iPhone would transfer pairing information and network credentials to a secure element inside the accessory. Once the device is powered, it could then join Wi-Fi or Thread and allow an Apple home hub to complete Matter setup.
The HomeKit-specific process would sit alongside conventional Matter pairing, rather than replacing it. The findings come from iOS 27 code and device firmware, with the feature still appearing to be under active development.
The Apple Post reported earlier this week that Apple is working with LG on a lineup including a wired video doorbell, thermostat, smart deadbolt lock, temperature sensor and several security cameras. The devices are expected to carry LG branding despite Apple reportedly helping with their development.
The timing makes the new code findings particularly notable. Apple’s October 13 “Welcome home” event is expected to introduce HomePad, HomePod mini 2 and a new Apple TV 4K, giving Apple an obvious opportunity to preview the wider accessory ecosystem built around those products.
The LG accessories themselves are not expected to reach customers immediately. Previous reporting has pointed to a launch several months after Apple’s own Home hardware, meaning October 13 could be more about showing how the pieces of the ecosystem will work together.
The Apple Post app for iPhone and iPad will have the latest coverage as Apple’s smart home announcements unfold. Download it from the App Store.