Apple could announce ADT partnership at October 13 ‘Welcome home’ event

Apple could be preparing to announce a new partnership with home security company ADT as part of its “Welcome home” product launch on Tuesday, October 13.

MacRumors reports that a series of clues surrounding newly hired ADT technicians point toward a possible tie-up with Apple, potentially covering installation services for the company’s upcoming smart home products.

The report comes just days before Apple’s home-focused launch, where the company is expected to introduce its long-rumored HomePad smart home hub alongside a new HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K.

ADT hires are reportedly being kept in the dark

According to MacRumors, ADT has been hiring “Low Voltage Technicians” in several U.S. cities since around July, but some of those employees have reportedly been given few details about what their eventual role will involve.

Some new hires are said to have spent recent months shadowing existing ADT technicians while waiting for further instructions, with employees and managers reportedly signing nondisclosure agreements connected to the role.

Another clue is the hardware being issued to the new technicians. MacRumors says the employees have been provided with iPhones for work, while other ADT technicians typically use Android devices.

Several of the new hires are also reportedly expecting to receive more information about their responsibilities later this month, potentially lining up with Apple’s October 13 announcements.

Professional installation could be part of Apple’s home push

The most obvious role for ADT would be professional installation. Apple is expected to introduce a wall-mounted version of HomePad, while the company is also reportedly working with LG on a wider ecosystem of connected-home products.

The Apple Post reported this week on new iPhone proximity controls apparently being developed for the LG accessories, which are expected to include products such as security cameras, a video doorbell, thermostat and smart lock.

MacRumors says some ADT employees have been told the secretive role will involve home automation and in-home installation services. That could give Apple a ready-made network of technicians able to install wall-mounted hubs and related accessories for customers who do not want to handle setup themselves.

It remains unclear whether any agreement would extend beyond installation into ADT’s home security monitoring services.

ADT already has a relationship with Google in the smart home market, although MacRumors reports that people familiar with the matter believe the agreement has either expired or is due to expire and is not expected to be renewed.

Apple’s October 13 “Welcome home” experience begins in New York at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, or 2 p.m. in the UK. The Apple Post has rounded up everything expected from the event ahead of Tuesday’s announcements.

For the latest coverage as Apple unveils its new smart home lineup, download The Apple Post app for iPhone and iPad from the App Store.