A potential partnership between security installation company ADT and Apple is rumoured, with the view that technicians could install Apple’s new home hub.

The potential partnership has emerged from a series of unusual recruitment moves at ADT, which has advertised low-voltage technician positions across multiple US cities since July.

According to reports, some recruits have been given iPhones rather than the Android devices typically supplied to other ADT technicians. Employees and managers have also reportedly signed non-disclosure agreements, while new hires have been waiting for further details about their responsibilities.

Some workers have reportedly been told their roles will involve home automation and installation services, fuelling the speculation that ADT could provide professional installation for Apple’s new products.

The service could be particularly useful for wall-mounted smart-home hubs, video doorbells, security cameras and thermostats, where positioning, wiring and configuration can make installation more complicated than setting up a conventional wireless speaker.

Apple is expected to introduce its new smart-home hub around min-October. The device is expected to feature a display, upgraded Siri AI, video calling and controls for connected home accessories.

As previously reported, Apple is also working with LG on a broader range of smart-home products, including security cameras, a video doorbell, a smart deadbolt lock, a thermostat and environmental sensors.

The strategy means Apple can shape the user experience and technology platform without the need to manufacture every device itself. LG would provide manufacturing and product support, while Apple focuses on integration with its ecosystem.

Adding ADT could help close another gap, giving consumers access to installation expertise and potentially reducing the technical barriers that can discourage people from investing in a connected home.

The move would also put Apple in more direct competition with Amazon’s Ring security business and Google’s Nest ecosystem, both of which combine connected hardware with software and, in some cases, professional security services.

For retailers, including JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman and The Good Guys, a more coordinated Apple smart-home offering has the potential to create new opportunities across sales of security cameras, locks, sensors and home-control systems.

Professional installation could then also become important.

The ADT partnership remains as speculation for now, and it also remains unclear whether Apple and ADT would offer any equivalent service outside the US.

Apple has spent years building HomeKit and its Home app, but has struggled to match the visibility of Amazon and Google in the connected-home market.

A dedicated hub, combined with a wider hardware range and professional installation services may give Apple a stronger foothold.