Apple to Enter Smart Home Camera Market with First Product Since 2003

Apple, known for launching groundbreaking devices like the Vision Pro and continually updating its hardware lineup, appears far from slowing down. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is preparing to enter the smart home IP camera market with a new device set to debut in 2026. This development would represent Apple’s first standalone camera since the iSight model in 2003 and mark its initial move into smart home products.

While specifics on whether the device will be designed for indoor or outdoor use are not yet clear, Kuo indicates that the camera is engineered to integrate effortlessly with other Apple hardware via wireless connectivity. This approach reflects Apple’s ongoing focus on the home market and aims to enhance user experience through its ecosystem, deepening the integration of Apple Intelligence and Siri.

As Apple gradually rolls out Apple Intelligence features, a 2026 launch aligns with these advancements. Additionally, the company is expected to release a HomePod with a screen, which may be closely linked to this new camera device and potentially launch around the same time. Though Apple currently supports HomeKit Secure Video with end-to-end encryption for compatible cameras, some users have reported issues with certain third-party products. An Apple-branded smart home camera would likely address these problems, offering a more seamless and secure experience for HomeKit users.