Apple is reportedly developing a home security camera with a unique feature: monitoring what happens inside a residence, but without the ability to record videos for later viewing. Instead of images, this device would present textual reports about the events.
This information was disclosed by journalist Mark Gurman, who works for Bloomberg. The product, currently identified internally by the code name J450, has not yet received official confirmation and would be part of a new set of devices intended for smart homes that Apple is creating.
According to Gurman, the J450 would be a compact, cylindrical device equipped with a low frame rate image sensor. Its function would not be that of a conventional surveillance camera. The equipment would use artificial intelligence to examine the surroundings and detect occurrences both inside and outside the dwelling. Instead of transmitting or saving a video file, the system would provide written descriptions of what was detected.
Additionally, the device would have facial recognition capability and could determine when a person enters a specific room. This technology would allow the system to recognize who is present without the user having access to visual recordings.
In practice, this would establish a significant distinction compared to traditional security cameras, as it would not be possible to review a recording to verify what happened. Gurman compared this technology to that being developed for future AirPods that will come with image sensors.
In August, macOS codes brought more details about the camera AirPods, which would use these sensors to interpret the environment instead of capturing photos or recording videos. The J450 camera would be created as a complement to the J490, the code name for Apple's anticipated smart home control center. Gurman mentioned that the launch of this device could occur on October 13th and it might be called HomePod. This device would have a screen of about six inches and could be placed on a counter or mounted on the wall.
The device would function as a central point for managing interconnected home products and would integrate with the new version of Siri. Voice and face recognition systems would also enable the identification of different residents, displaying personalized content for each one.
Rumors about Apple's expansion into this sector have been circulating for several months. In July, it was reported that the company was preparing new equipment for smart homes, including improvements to the HomePod mini and Apple TV with hardware ready for new AI functionalities. The J450 camera could be part of this product line.