Apple's Next Move: Smart Security Camera for the Home

Apple is reportedly planning to expand its lineup of smart home products by introducing a smart security camera. According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company intends to start production of an IP camera designed for the smart home market in 2026, with a goal of selling over 10 million units annually.

The camera is expected to integrate seamlessly with Apple’s other hardware devices through wireless connectivity, ensuring a cohesive experience across Apple’s ecosystem. Users can anticipate integration with Apple’s intelligent features and Siri voice assistant, making it a logical addition for those already invested in the Apple environment.

Smart security cameras have become one of the most rapidly growing categories in home technology, valued for their versatility and appeal in households globally. Apple’s venture into this market could strengthen its presence in the smart home space, where other Apple devices, like the HomePod or Apple TV, can enhance functionality by acting as a home hub for recording and streaming video feeds.

Beyond hardware sales, Apple’s camera could generate recurring revenue through subscriptions, as the HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV) service, included in the iCloud plan, allows users to store recorded videos in iCloud. Depending on their iCloud plan, customers can connect multiple cameras to their account, with subscriptions reaching up to $11 per month. The service requires an Apple home hub, like HomePod or Apple TV, to analyze video and provide alerts on various events, including the detection of people, animals, vehicles, or packages.

This upcoming smart camera could mark a new phase in Apple’s push into home automation, with the potential to enhance its ecosystem by offering consumers an integrated and user-friendly security solution.