Apple Plans to Enter Home Security Market with Doorbell Camera

Apple appears ready to challenge major players like Amazon and Google in the home security sector by developing its own doorbell camera. According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg News, the new device is expected to leverage Face ID technology to unlock doors and could debut as early as late next year.

The camera is designed to function similarly to the facial recognition feature on iPhones, automatically unlocking doors for recognized homeowners. To ensure robust security, it will integrate Apple’s Secure Enclave chip, which isolates and processes Face ID data independently from other system hardware.

Industry sources suggest the camera will likely be compatible with existing HomeKit-enabled smart locks. Apple may also collaborate with a smart lock manufacturer to provide a seamless, all-in-one solution upon launch. HomeKit, Apple’s smart home ecosystem, is positioned as a direct competitor to Amazon’s Alexa and Google’s smart home offerings, enabling users to manage various household devices through the Home app.

Gurman also speculates that the device might include Apple’s in-house ‘Proxima’ Wi-Fi/Bluetooth combination chip, which is rumored to be integral to future HomePod Mini and Apple TV devices set for release in 2025.

The company’s broader smart home ambitions reportedly include other innovations, such as a new smart home camera, an Apple-branded TV, and smart displays. These could feature a magnetic attachment system for wall mounts or speaker bases, with a separate variant incorporating a robotic arm for enhanced functionality.

While this expansion into the home security and smart home industry represents a promising opportunity for Apple, it also carries risks. Security vulnerabilities could lead to backlash, as seen earlier this year when Amazon-owned Ring faced a $5.6 million settlement over security breaches.

Apple’s move into home security highlights its commitment to integrating advanced technology and user-centric design into everyday living, offering users a cohesive and secure smart home ecosystem.