Apple is reportedly working on a doorbell camera as it continues to expand its smart home offerings. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg News wrote in his Power On newsletter on Sunday (December 22) that the smart doorbell camera will use Face ID to unlock doors. According to Gurman, the camera could be released as early as the end of next year.
The report suggests that the lock will function similarly to the iPhone’s Face ID feature—automatically unlocking once it scans the user’s face. Gurman noted that this device is “likely” to work with existing third-party HomeKit smart locks. Additionally, Apple might collaborate with a smart lock company to deliver a comprehensive system from day one.
The camera will possibly use Apple’s in-house “Proxima” combo Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip, which is set to roll out in the new year for devices like the new HomePod Mini and Apple TV.
PYMNTS has hit out at Apple for any comments but still waits for any response from its part.
This is taking place after a report from last month revealed that Apple is currently working on a device that has AI alongside app and smart home functions, making this device an entirely new category.
Codenamed “J490,” this device is expected to launch as early as March next year and will feature Siri, Apple Intelligence, and a touch interface. Its goal is to provide Apple with a competitive product against devices like Amazon’s Echo and Google’s Nest Hub. Bloomberg’s earlier report indicated that the company hopes to sell multiple units to customers, allowing them to place the devices in various rooms and use them as an intercom system.
As PYMNTS noted after that report, Apple’s plans could reflect its broader ambition to dominate the smart home market. This aligns with the growing consumer demand for centralized control of connected devices and seamless shopping experiences using voice commands and touchscreen interfaces.
Shimon Markiewicz, Operational Product Owner at tech firm Tietoevry, told PYMNTS, “AI-powered smart home devices equipped with personal data analysis could become powerful marketing tools. Companies can tailor offers and advertisements even more precisely to individual users’ needs, potentially boosting sales.”
According to PYMNTS’ How We Will Pay report, consumers are increasingly integrating connected devices into their daily lives, multitasking effortlessly. The report highlights that 85% of users are highly connected, with more than half using devices during breakfast, two-thirds during commutes, and many while caring for others.
