Apple is revamping HomeKit as it plans a concerted push into the smart home market, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman (a subscription is required to read the article).
HomeKit is Apple’s smart home framework that lets you securely control lights, locks, cameras, and thermostats using your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, or Siri. The Home app Acts as a universal remote to organize accessories by room, create custom automation “scenes,” and view security cameras.
Gurman says Apple wants to add new HomeKit categories of connected products. The tech is also working with third-party manufacturers on new devices designed for the Siri AI-powered smart home platform, he adds.
Apple has previously been reported to be working on its own new smart home products, including a security camera and a doorbell.
About the camera Gurman has previously had this to say: The device has facial recognition and infrared sensors to determine who is in a room. Apple believes users will place cameras throughout their home to help with automation. That could mean turning lights off when someone leaves a room or automatically playing music liked by a particular family member.
Gurman added that Apple is also working on a smart doorbell with advanced facial recognition that wirelessly connects to a deadbolt lock. The idea is that the doorbell could automatically unlock the door for a home’s residents by scanning their face — just like Face ID lets them into their iPhone.
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