Apple is said to be moving into the hardware side of the smart home with in-house development of connected devices. 9to5Mac's sources claim that creating a software platform that integrates everything from light bulbs to front door locks with the iPhone is not just enough, with Apple to be developing products like smart control panels and speaker systems.

On Wednesday, The Information also claimed that the Apple was developing new connected devices.

During its annual developers conference, Apple unveiled HomeKit, a platform that will be part of the next version of the iOS iPhone and iPad operating system that will enable multiple smart devices to be controlled from one app using voice commands.