Apple is reportedly developing a next-gen smart home doorbell and lock system with integrated Face ID, but according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, it is still in the early stages. In his new Power On newsletter, Gurman said the doorbell would link wirelessly to a compatible deadbolt lock, enabling the automatic unlocking of doors using Face ID. With support for third-party HomeKit locks, perhaps this could become something with a company partnered on an all-in-one solution.
Table of Contents
Apple Working on Face ID-Enabled Smart Doorbell and Lock System, Expected to Expand Smart Home Offerings
The doorbell would compete with Amazon’s Ring lineup, although Gurman didn’t say whether or not Apple’s version would offer video capture. If it does so, the device would likely be compatible with Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video service, which records end-to-end encrypted video to the iCloud. Privacy and security would probably be major selling points for an Apple smart home doorbell, particularly if it features the company’s supposed new Wi-Fi chip with a Secure Enclave designed to keep user data secure.
The product is still in early development and is not likely to be released until a few years later, according to Gurman pressuring. The Cupertino giant’s smart home doorbell plans come as part of the company’s wider drive to increase its smart home portfolio. Besides this, the company is also said to be working on a HomeKit-enabled indoor security camera that will be positioned to compete with the Logitech Circle View as well as a smart home hub that may launch in 2024.
If these plans materialize, it would be a significant expansion of Apple’s smart home initiatives and round out its existing HomeKit lineup. The company’s focus on privacy and security, along with access to advanced technology like Face ID, could set its smart home hardware apart from that of competitors. It’ll be interesting to see if this will give the Cupertino giant’s products a leg up over established brands like Amazon, but either way, the rumoured launches point to a long-term strategy in the smart home space.
FAQs
What is Apple developing?
A smart doorbell and lock system with Face ID integration.
When will it launch?
The product is rumoured to debut no earlier than 2026.
