Apple Set to Enter the Smart Home Camera Market in 2026
Apple plans to launch its first smart home IP camera by 2026, integrating seamlessly with its ecosystem.
Apple appears poised to expand its presence in the smart home market with a new product expected in 2026: a smart home IP camera. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reported that this product will represent Apple’s first standalone camera since the release of the iSight in 2003, marking its return to independent camera hardware and its debut in the smart home category.
While the exact nature of the camera—whether intended for indoor or outdoor use—remains unclear, Kuo notes that the device is designed to integrate effortlessly with Apple’s existing hardware through wireless connectivity. This expansion into home technology is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to explore growth opportunities within the smart home arena, with the user experience benefiting from Apple’s established ecosystem, including advanced integration with Apple Intelligence and Siri.
Apple is currently rolling out enhanced Apple Intelligence features, making a 2026 launch timeline seem fitting for the new device. Additionally, Apple is anticipated to release a new version of the HomePod with a screen, potentially timed to align with the camera’s release to provide users with a tightly integrated smart home experience.
Apple’s smart home strategy already includes HomeKit Secure Video, which offers end-to-end encryption for HomeKit-enabled cameras. However, users have reported compatibility issues with third-party manufacturers. A camera produced under Apple’s own brand could offer improved functionality and reliability, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to a seamless and secure smart home environment.