We already knew that Apple is rumored to be working on a smart home doorbell that could rival the likes of Ring, Eufy, Aqara and Arlo, and now we’ve got a few extra details thanks to a tipster.
Kosutami, who is said to have a decent track record for tech rumor mongering, posted a tweet saying the new doorbell could come with Apple’s MagSafe technology on board.
What MagSafe could add to the mix is a bit of a mystery though, I guess it could be for wireless charging from a battery packs, or for magnetically attaching the doorbell to a mount.
At the end of last year, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple was in the early stages of developing a smart home doorbell and lock system that would use Face ID to identify people and unlock the door.
The report suggests that the Apple video doorbell would scan a resident’s face as they approach, then connect wirelessly to a deadbolt to unlock the door automatically.
Using Apple’s Secure Enclave chip, the system is said to be able to process Face ID data separately from the main hardware, much like Apple’s other biometric tech.
It’s purported this smart doorbell may integrate with existing third-party HomeKit compatible smart locks, but Apple could also partner with a brand to deliver a complete package at launch.
It’s also rumored to feature Apple’s upcoming “Proxima” Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip, which is expected to debut in new HomePod Mini and Apple TV devices.
This move would be part of Apple’s broader push into the smart home arena, reportedly centered around an Apple Intelligence ecosystem.
Other rumored products include an Apple-branded TV, new smart home cameras, and a pair of dedicated smart home hubs.
These are set to feature displays; one with a magnetic wall-mountable design, and another attached to a robotic arm for enhanced functionality.
