The smart security camera is a strategic move for Apple, as these devices are among the fastest-growing in the home and offer potential for ecosystem lock-in. The camera would likely work with Apple's HomeKit Secure Video service, which stores footage securely on the iCloud. While Apple Home currently supports third-party cameras, only a few models support HomeKit Secure Video. The type of camera Apple will start with is yet to be determined.
Key takeaways:
- Apple is reportedly planning to start production of a smart home IP camera in 2026, aiming to sell over 10 million units a year.
- The camera is designed to integrate with other Apple hardware products via wireless connectivity and will likely integrate with Apple Intelligence and Siri voice assistant.
- Apple's smart home platform, Apple Home, currently supports integration with third-party cameras, but only a few cameras support Apple's HomeKit Secure Video service (HKSV).
- Apple's move into developing smart home devices comes as a surprise given that its original intent with HomeKit was to provide a software framework for third-party manufacturers.