Apple has already taken cell phones and laptops into the future, introduced the world to the tablet computer, but their next target is the home.
Sources "familiar with the matter" told the Financial Times Apple is planning on introducing a software platform that would turn a user's iPhone into a remote control for the house. Apple has seen itself conforming to smartphone trends set by companies such as Samsung and Google while the market as a whole has been slowing in developed countries.
The sources said Apple could be trying to jump out in front of its competitors in introducing a tech-connected "smart home." Apple may have foreshadowed the reveal with a patent filing describing an iPhone feature where the lights of a person's home automatically come on when the smartphone's enters the house.
Google and Samsung have already made purchases to forecast a tech-infused home. Google bought Nest Labs, makers of Internet-connected thermostats and smoke alarms, in Jan. Samsung unveiled a line of home appliances like TVs, refrigerators and washing machines that can be controlled by their smartphones.
Apple has already made it clear it wants to connect its devices, such as the iPad, iPhone, MacBook, iMac and forthcoming products like the iWatch and Apple TV. With this increased connectivity in the home, Apple is sure to emphasize safety from hackers, the Times reported.
Apple has always taken pride in its online safety and the company reportedly considers it has the advantage in this field over Google.
Apple has not commented and the publication noted how the company is known to change its plans on a daily basis. Apple will host its annual Worldwide Developer's Conference June 2-6 and is expected to unveil mobile operating system iOS 8, potentially a new iPhone and the connected home, plus who knows what else.
