Apple is reportedly developing a smart doorbell camera featuring Face ID technology for unlocking doors, according to Mark Gurman’s latest report in the Power On newsletter. The device could potentially launch by the end of 2025, though this timeline remains uncertain.
The smart doorbell camera would function similarly to Face ID on iPhones, automatically unlocking doors when it recognizes the homeowner or an authorized resident. It would rely on Apple’s Secure Enclave chip, a specialized hardware component designed to securely store and process biometric data, keeping it isolated from the rest of the system. This approach mirrors the privacy and security standards used across Apple’s ecosystem.
Gurman suggests that Apple’s smart doorbell will “likely” integrate with existing third-party smart locks compatible with HomeKit, Apple’s smart home platform. Additionally, the company might collaborate with a smart lock manufacturer to provide users with a comprehensive system right from the device’s launch. The doorbell camera is also expected to incorporate Apple’s rumored “Proxima” Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combination chip, which could debut in upcoming devices like a new HomePod Mini and Apple TV as early as next year.
This new doorbell camera is part of what appears to be Apple’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the smart home market. The company is reportedly working on other smart home products under its Apple Intelligence initiative. These include another smart home camera, a potential Apple-branded TV, and two types of smart displays. One of the displays resembles a simplified iPad and can magnetically attach to wall mounts or speaker bases, while the other is designed to sit on a robotic arm connected to a larger base.
Apple’s push into the smart home sector reflects its intention to strengthen its ecosystem and compete with established players in the market, such as Amazon and Google. By leveraging its expertise in seamless hardware-software integration and prioritizing user privacy, Apple aims to deliver innovative smart home solutions that cater to its customers’ preferences. The rumored doorbell camera could mark a significant step in this direction, particularly if it builds on the secure, user-friendly technologies Apple is known for.
While details remain limited, the inclusion of advanced features like Face ID and potential partnerships with smart lock companies suggests that Apple is aiming for a product that blends convenience with robust security. If these efforts materialize, Apple’s smart home lineup could significantly enhance its appeal among users seeking high-quality and privacy-focused connected home devices.