Do these job listings suggest Apple is making new smart home devices?

Apple has apparently realised both Amazon and Google are better than it when it comes to serving smart home customers.

According to Bloomberg, Apple wants to bulk up its team focused on developing smart home software and devices, all with the goal of catching up to Amazon and Google. It is looking for engineers to work in its headquarters in Cupertino and San Diego. They'll work as part of a group dedicated to overhauling Apple’s smart home platform, which includes possibly building new smart home devices beyond the HomePod and Apple TV.

The group is also trying to "spur more outside accessory and appliance makers" to connect their devices to the iPhone and, crucially, Apple’s voice-activated assistant, Siri. This whole effort is being led on the software side by Andreas Gal, a former Mozilla chief technology officer, whose Apple-acquired company, Silk Labs, developed an AI-based platform for connecting internet-connected devices.

Apple has posted 15 job listings in the last month for engineers to work on its HomeKit platform. Other listings mention supply chain expertise and developing wireless, battery-powered devices with camera modules. Apple, which has also been "privately recruiting" people in the internet-connected devices industry, even hired new engineers and managers this year from Amazon and Qualcomm.

Keep in mind, a few years ago, teams inside Apple were reportedly creating a variety of smart home accessories, including modules for that would open and close windows, cabinets, and doors, but those efforts indefinitely paused, Bloomberg said.

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