Apple is Reportedly Developing a Smart Home Doorbell with Face ID

Apple is reportedly in the early stages of developing a smart home doorbell and lock system incorporating Face ID, as detailed by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter, Gurman revealed that the doorbell would wirelessly connect to a compatible deadbolt lock, enabling users to unlock their doors seamlessly with Face ID. This device would likely integrate with third-party HomeKit locks, though Apple might collaborate with another company to create a comprehensive solution.

Apple’s smart home doorbell would directly compete with Amazon’s Ring line of products. However, Gurman did not confirm whether Apple’s version would feature video recording capabilities. Nonetheless, Apple would almost certainly emphasize the privacy and security aspects of its design, leveraging its reputation in these areas. The device is expected to include a Secure Enclave-enabled Wi-Fi chip for safeguarding user data. If video recording is included, Apple could integrate the device with its HomeKit Secure Video service, offering end-to-end encryption for footage stored in iCloud.

Given the early development stage, Gurman estimates the smart doorbell might not see a release until 2026 at the earliest. Meanwhile, Apple is poised to expand its smart home ecosystem significantly in the coming years. In addition to the rumored doorbell, the company is planning to release a smart home hub in 2025 and is rumored to be developing its own HomeKit-enabled indoor security camera. This would position Apple as a stronger competitor to established players like Logitech’s Circle View cameras.

The Face ID-equipped doorbell is expected to connect seamlessly with smart deadbolts and could integrate with existing HomeKit-compatible third-party locks. Apple might also partner with a lock manufacturer to provide an all-in-one smart home security solution. While this marks Apple’s first venture into the smart doorbell market, the company’s broader ambitions in smart home technology include creating products that unify convenience with cutting-edge security.

The addition of Face ID technology to smart home devices could give Apple a competitive edge over Amazon’s Ring and Google’s Nest offerings. By extending the security capabilities of its smartphones into the home, Apple is addressing a growing demand for innovative, privacy-focused solutions in the smart home market. The rumored smart doorbell is likely just one part of Apple’s plan to dominate this space.

As Apple delves deeper into smart home technology, the company is working on several complementary products. These include the rumored smart home hub expected to launch next year and possibly additional HomeKit-compatible devices. Although details about the smart doorbell are still limited, the product signals Apple’s intent to establish itself as a leader in the smart home arena.