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According to this report, Apple plans to explore new growth opportunities and enter the smart home market next year. As part of this effort, the Cupertino-based tech giant is developing a smart home doorbell that supports FaceID and allows users to log in by scanning their face, similar to the iPhone. To improve the device's claimed features, Apple may turn to other third-party smart lock manufacturers or even partner with a specific company. In the latest issue of the Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gorman describes Apple's smart home efforts. The iPhone maker is reportedly working on a smart home doorbell system with advanced facial recognition that connects wirelessly to your deadbolt. Apple already offers several third-party smart home locks on its online store, but this is said to be the company's first dedicated product. It is speculated that it will work on the same HomeKit protocol and may support other third-party locks. The move could allow the company to emerge as a competitor in a space dominated by companies like Amazon Ring and Google Nest.

This product will use Apple's first proprietary wireless networking chipset called Proxima to protect consumer data. Smart home doorbell systems are not expected to hit the market until the end of next year at the earliest. But even if Apple develops this technology, it could sell it through third-party brands. In this case, Logitech or Belkin could be partners, said Gorman. The newsletter also describes the iPhone maker's other efforts in the smart home space. It aims to develop an AI-powered smart hub with a 6-inch screen, FaceTime support and a new operating system. Apple will also reportedly release updates to its Apple TV and HomePod Mini devices next year, both of which will feature new wireless networking chips. The company may also expand into home security by connecting indoor security cameras to what it calls a smart hub. Its development is currently underway and it can compete with companies such as Amazon, Blink, Google and Logitech.