After largely ignoring the smart home market for years, Apple is preparing for a substantial entry expected to take place between 2025 and 2026. Reported by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the tech giant is gearing up to launch several new smart home devices, including what could be described as an iPad-like home controller, updated versions of the HomePod mini, and now rumors point to the introduction of smart home-centric products like their very own smart video doorbell.
According to Gurman, Apple's smart doorbell may not just be another device after all. This innovative doorbell is said to feature advanced facial recognition technology and will wirelessly connect to deadbolt locks. This means the doorbell could potentially recognize you as you approach and automatically grant you entry, much like Face ID does on the iPhone. This level of sophistication, if it truly materializes, is certainly something not commonly found within the current market of video doorbells.
Video doorbells are quite the trend nowadays, with most consumers being familiar with products from established players like Amazon’s Ring. Nevertheless, Gurman notes, there are few other options compatible with Apple’s HomeKit, one of which is the relatively popular Aqara G4 Doorbell. Apple's introduction of its doorbell may seek to not just carve out its territory within this growing market but to also tie closely with its existing HomeKit infrastructure, leveraging its HomeKit Secure Video options which offer end-to-end encryption for user privacy.
Apple's aspirations don’t stop at the doorbell; alongside this device, there are whispers of Apple developing indoor and outdoor security cameras as well. All these developments indicate Apple is intent on creating an array of accessories leveraging HomeKit and Apple Intelligence to solidify its position within the smart home space. While many devices like smart locks and motion detectors are already available under the Apple umbrella, they have been reliant on third-party production without any offerings made by Apple itself until now.
Interestingly, Apple’s pivot toward the smart home scene, particularly with the introduction of security tech, stems from its established reputation for privacy and security. Many consumers hold significant reservations about using products developed by Amazon and other major tech firms, citing data privacy as their foremost issue. Gurman highlights this dilemma, pointing out Apple’s long-standing effort to present itself as the industry leader when it involves user privacy. The company seems to be betting on this reputation to attract consumers who may be hesitant to introduce cameras and microphones produced by rival tech firms.
A report from Gurman suggests Apple also aims to leverage the potential increase within iCloud subscription services as individuals might seek to store recordings from their new security devices. Given the emphasis on privacy and the security of user data, the proposal of using iCloud for video storage from these devices offers another layer of trust for potential customers.
While the excitement grows over Apple’s smart home plans, there remains caution to temper it. Gurman advises taking these rumors with some skepticism, noting widespread discussions around whether Apple will actually follow through with these initiatives. There's the possibility, albeit slim, of abandoning these projects altogether, similar to how the concept of the Apple Car has seemingly lost momentum. Leadership fears surrounding safety issues and reputational risk could lead the company to retract similar aspirations around smart home devices.
Despite these uncertainties, anticipation continues to build over Apple’s plans to release multiple devices over the next few years. With reports affirming their commitment to this smart home expansion, fans are eager to witness the reveal of innovative products, from the engaging face recognition-capable smart doorbell to potential state-of-the-art security cameras. Whether these devices will meet both market demands and the company's high-tech standards remains to be seen, but with 2025 on the horizon, consumers may not have to wait long to see the outcome of these ambitious plans.
The smart home tech industry remains poised for growth, and could very well benefit from the reliable innovation and user trust associated with the Apple brand. Only time will tell if the devices we anticipate will grace our homes and make our lives easier come to fruition. With discussions already buzzing, the tech world will be keeping close tabs on Apple's next moves.
