Apple is reportedly developing a new kind of smart doorbell. You’ll be able to unlock your door by scanning your face, just like Face ID on your iPhone. However, its development is still in the early stages.
Apple seems to be slowly expanding its smart home products, which have been dominated by some companies like Amazon and Google, both of which sell smart doorbells like Amazon’s Ring and Google’s Nest, respectively.
Apple’s smart doorbell could use Face ID to unlock doors
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the smart doorbell will include advanced facial recognition technology that connects wirelessly to a deadbolt lock. That means users won’t need to carry keys; the door will unlock for people whose faces are in the system.
It will reportedly use Apple’s Secure Enclave chip to keep user data secure. The Secure Enclave keeps Face ID information separate from other hardware that prevents unauthorized access. Third-party HomeKit smart locks could be supported with the doorbell for flexibility for those users who may already have such systems installed in their homes.
Notably, the doorbell may also use Apple’s new “Proxima” Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, which is believed to appear in next year’s refreshed HomePod Mini and Apple TV. This chip will improve connectivity and performance for the smart doorbell.
Apple could release the device under its own brand due to potential break-ins and robbery concerns. Alternatively, Apple may provide an integrated system for the door to its close partners such as Belkin.
While exciting, Apple’s smart doorbell is unlikely to launch before the end of 2025. The product is in early development. More details are expected to surface as its release approaches.
Other smart home projects
The smart doorbell is just one of the many smart home projects Apple is working on. Other projects like a smart home control device that can reportedly attach to walls and a speaker base are also in the works. Next year, we will also see refreshed HomePod Mini and Apple TVs. Apple is also reportedly working on new in-home security cameras. This shows Apple’s focus on home automation and how it wants to change the way we live in our homes.
