Apple is reportedly moving into smart home technology, while Google is said to eye home security

The race for smart home technology is heating up as the Financial Times reports that Apple is making a move into smart home technology, by developing a software platform that would turn the iPhone into a remote control for home appliances.

Apple is said to be in talks with smart home device manufacturers to certify their products for use with Apple’s devices, similar to the existing “Made for iPhone” label given to compatible accessories now. The initiative would be announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference on June 2, according to the FT, though it notes that the company tends to change its plans for WWDC at the last minute.

In the meantime, The Information reports that Google, which made a huge commitment to smart home technology when it bought Nest Labs for $3.2 billion earlier this year, is planning to take a step into home security. It is said to have considered acquiring connected camera manufacturer Dropcam to accelerate such plans, though The Information notes that the status of talks between the two firms isn’t clear at the moment.

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