Apple smart home camera and new AirPods feature rumors swirl - what to know

Apple is reportedly working on a new smart home security camera that will integrate seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem and HomeKit platform. The company is also planning to add more health features to the AirPods, potentially turning them into health-tracking devices in addition to earbuds. 

Apple could enter the security camera market as early as 2026, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has a finger on the pulse of Apple's supply chain line. Kuo says Apple is looking to Goertek to assemble the device, intending to produce tens of millions of security cameras. 

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Though little is known about what the camera will look like, Kuo claims Apple aims to sell more than 10 million units annually, roughly a quarter of the global smart home camera market. The camera is expected to work over IP, likely through Matter, and support Apple Intelligence and Siri. 

It's safe to assume that an Apple-made security camera will support HomeKit Secure Video (HSV), the company's platform for securely storing and managing video footage with end-to-end encryption. 

Kuo says Goertek also secured production for the 2026 AirPods model, which will feature advanced health sensors. The new AirPods are said to boast health features similar to those on the Apple Watch, and Apple is aiming this upgrade will boost projected shipments to 68 million units in 2026, up from 48 million units in 2023. 

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This solidifies older rumors that Apple is adding new health sensors to the AirPods Pro 3, which is expected to launch in 2025. MacRumors had previously reported that the AirPods Pro 3 could measure body temperature from within the ear canal, though this upgrade could also be released in 2026 with a later Pro model.

Kuo had previously reported that future AirPods could feature infrared cameras to improve spatial audio experiences when used with the Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset.