Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the smart home camera market in 2026, marking a significant step into a competitive sector dominated by Amazon and Google. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated that Apple plans to produce millions of units annually, indicating its ambition to become a major player in the smart home space.
The anticipated smart security camera is expected to integrate deeply with Apple's ecosystem, leveraging Siri and Apple Intelligence for enhanced functionality. Observers believe this move underscores Apple's growing focus on its smart home portfolio.
Amazon's Ring and Google's Nest cameras have already evolved beyond basic security tools by integrating AI features that can recognize and respond to household events. Apple's entry appears aimed at differentiating itself through proprietary technology and tighter ecosystem integration, which could offer unique user experiences.
An Apple-designed camera is likely to serve more than a mere surveillance role. It might work in conjunction with existing Apple smart home hubs such as the HomePod or Apple TV. For example, users could stream live footage to an Apple TV or utilize a HomePod as a hub for storing and analyzing video footage. Such an approach could strengthen Apple's ecosystem and boost hardware sales.
Apple's strategy may also involve subscription revenue through its HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV) service, included in its iCloud plans. This service stores recorded footage securely, with coverage varying based on subscription tiers. At present, only select third-party cameras, such as models from Eve and Logitech, support HKSV.
On the other hand, major competitors like Ring, Arlo, and Blink offer their own video storage and smart alert services through separate subscriptions. Apple's model focuses on seamless integration within its ecosystem and a strong emphasis on security, reflecting HomeKit's guiding principles.
Reports suggest that Apple's smart home ambitions are broader than a single device. The company is expected to introduce a smart display device next year, combining a HomePod-like speaker with a touchscreen. Positioned as a competitor to Amazon's Echo Show, this product would offer capabilities such as setting timers and displaying recipes.
Further, Apple is reportedly developing a more advanced display featuring a robotic arm that can track user movement across a room. While Apple's push into first-party smart home hardware may seem overdue, the company's work with the Matter standard aims to enhance compatibility and security within the smart home ecosystem, giving it an edge as new products launch.
Kuo emphasized Apple's plans to achieve high shipment volumes, reflecting its ambition to capture a significant share of the market. While the details of Apple's differentiating factors remain unclear, some speculate that incorporating Apple silicon chips in the camera could unlock unique capabilities unavailable to competitors.
