The Apple 2014 Worldwide Developer Conference might involve more than OSX and iOS updates-- the Financial Times reports the event will have company revealing a "big play" in the home automation arena.
According to the FT's anonymous sources this will involve "a new software platform that would turn the iPhone into a remote control for lights, security systems and other household appliances." Apple already owns the patents for such a system featuring location-based control (via Bluetooth and iBeacon, perhaps?) of lighting and other connected devices.
The platform will even involve a "Made for iPhone"-style scheme for the makers of devices compatible with the system, and the company will emphasise privacy as a plus over Google's "multi-device future" plans, the FT continues.
Unsurprisingly Apple itself refuses to comment over the alleged plans, which might be a reaction to Google's $3.2 billion acquisition of smart thermostat maker Nest and the Samsung Smart Home automation platform.