If anybody had doubts about Apple’s rumored smart home push and renewed interest in intelligent home experiences, a new patent filing may put those to rest. The company has secured a new patent that details a system designed to simplify and secure the process of configuring smart home devices in new constructions or retrofit projects.
The patent (US-12199817-B2) addresses common pain points in smart home installations such as network configurations, device security, and ownership transitions. Most curious, however, is the inclusion of language relating to professional installers.
Apple’s Patent for Professional Installations: The Fine Print
According to the patent, first reported by Patently Apple, Apple’s method is designed to help installers easily configure and integrate devices into a smart home ecosystem via the exchange of secure certificates between a mobile device used by installers and the central hub of the smart home. This approach leverages proximity-based communication protocols and eliminates the need for a pre-existing network. The patent says these protocols could include NFC, Bluetooth, Thread, Wi-Fi, and others.
Rather than rely on the cloud, the system stores device-specific credentials such as digital certificates within the central home device to keep sensitive information off the installer’s mobile device, minimizing exposure to data breaches or misuse.
Further, the patent outlines a system for managing multiple accessories such as lights, HVAC systems and security devices, allowing them to be configured, updated and monitored through a single interface, reducing complexity for users and installers.

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The patent also calls for a mechanism that allows for more secure home ownership transitions. Ownership of smart home devices can be securely handed over to the home’s buyers, preserving functionality and privacy without having to reconfigure smart home systems.
Behind Apple’s Smart Home Push
The patent comes as the company is rumored to be making a heavy push for the smart home market, with several devices to be released in 2025 and beyond. Rumored devices include wall-mounted smart home control panels, a redesigned HomePod and Apple TV, security cameras, a video doorbell that uses Face ID-like technology to unlock a door, and more.
Apple is also rumored to be at least exploring the possibility of making its own TV set that would ostensibly run on a version of tvOS.
What is described in the patent could be useful for builders and integrators working on homes where the network infrastructure is unavailable. The patent also essentially provides for technology that ensures that installers only have access to set-up accessories, which signals Apple’s interest in partnering with installers such as CEDIA-channel integrators, although that is purely conjecture at this point.
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