Apple Plans Smart Display and Security Camera to Compete in Smart Home Market

Apple is intensifying its presence in the smart home market, with plans to launch a smart display by 2025 and a security camera in 2026. This move could position Apple as a major player alongside competitors like Amazon and Google in the realm of smart home devices.

According to sources close to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s smart display, codenamed J490, could be announced as early as March 2025. The 6-inch square device, designed to mount on walls, will reportedly feature a front-facing camera, speakers, and a rechargeable battery. It’s expected to serve as a smart home hub for HomeKit, enabling users to control smart devices using Siri, enjoy music, and make FaceTime calls. This new device is said to run on a unique operating system called Pebble, which merges elements of WatchOS and the iPhone’s Standby Mode. Additionally, the display may incorporate Handoff capabilities, allowing seamless transitions between Apple devices.

While Apple has yet to announce pricing, analysts expect the device to compete directly with products like Amazon’s Echo Hub and Google’s Nest Hub, with possible pricing between $150 and $230. Apple is also rumored to be developing a premium version of the display, potentially priced around $1,000.

The smart home initiative doesn’t end there; Apple is reportedly venturing into the home security camera market. Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-regarded Apple analyst, suggests that Apple could release its own HomeKit-compatible security camera by 2026. The camera will likely leverage Apple’s IP technology and Siri for integrated functionality. Apple’s focus on end-to-end encryption suggests it could utilize HomeKit Secure Video, adding privacy features to its device. Goertek, a prominent Apple supplier, is expected to oversee the production of this camera, with projected annual sales surpassing 10 million units.

In parallel with these smart home developments, Apple has ambitions to enhance its AirPods with health-monitoring capabilities. The upcoming AirPods model, expected in 2026, could feature health sensors similar to those found in the Apple Watch, potentially making AirPods a multi-functional health device. These advanced sensors may support health features in future AirPods Pro models, with possible upgrades in temperature measurement through the ear canal.

With these strategic expansions, Apple appears committed to building a robust smart home ecosystem to rival industry leaders, leveraging its successful smartphone, tablet, and laptop markets to gain traction in the growing smart home sector.