Apple Prepares New Smart Home Camera and Health-Centric AirPods with Supplier Goertek
Apple’s focus shifts to smart home and wearables with plans for a new HomeKit-compatible camera and advanced AirPods targeting health functions.
In a recent industry update, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed Apple’s strategic expansion into smart home technology and wearable health devices. After years of speculation around potential smart home products, Apple has reportedly engaged Goertek, a known supplier, to produce an Apple-designed smart home camera and a new set of AirPods with enhanced health-focused features. These products are anticipated for launch in 2026, signaling Apple’s renewed commitment to diversifying its product lineup beyond its traditional strengths.
Following Apple’s decision to step back from its long-touted Apple Car project, the company has redirected its resources toward artificial intelligence and smart home innovation. While Apple has historically limited its smart home involvement to providing APIs for HomeKit and has largely depended on third-party hardware, this rumored smart home camera could mark a significant change. Since HomeKit’s introduction in 2014, Apple’s only smart home products have included the HomePod series and the Apple TV 4K, showing a cautious approach in this market.
The anticipated smart camera is intended to leverage HomeKit Secure Video capabilities, allowing Apple to tap into a competitive market where it aims for around 10 million shipments annually. With a market size of approximately 30 to 40 million IP cameras sold yearly, this could provide a new growth avenue for Apple. The timing aligns with the expanding adoption of Matter-enabled devices, suggesting that Apple’s camera may integrate seamlessly into the broader smart home ecosystem.
In addition to the camera, Apple is also looking to further develop its wearable offerings. With Goertek positioned to take on new orders, Apple plans to introduce health-centric features in future AirPods models. Currently, AirPods Pro 2 includes some hearing assistance capabilities, hinting at a deeper focus on wearables with medical or wellness functions in future product releases.
As Apple’s smartphone business continues to dominate its revenue, these strategic product launches represent an effort to strengthen its foothold in other sectors and provide diversified growth. Through smart home and health-oriented wearables, Apple is targeting lucrative niches with high consumer interest, further positioning itself as a leader in integrated personal technology.