Apple's next product may bring this iPhone feature to your home's front door

Apple is developing a smart doorbell with Face ID technology that will allow residents to unlock their doors simply by looking at the device, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter.

The doorbell system, which would mark Apple's entry into the home security market dominated by Amazon Ring and Google Nest, is designed to work similarly to Face ID on iPhones. When residents approach their door, the camera would scan their face and automatically unlock a connected deadbolt.

The device will incorporate Apple's Secure Enclave technology to protect biometric data and is expected to utilize the company's upcoming Proxima wireless chip , Gurman reports. While likely compatible with existing HomeKit-enabled smart locks, Apple may also partner with a lock manufacturer to offer an integrated system at launch.

The Face ID doorbell is part of Apple's broader push into the smart home market planned for 2025. This initiative includes a new smart home hub with a 6-inch display, an indoor security camera, and updates to existing products like the HomePod mini and Apple TV.

However, the project faces potential challenges around security and liability. Despite Face ID's proven track record on iPhones with a reported false unlock rate of less than one in a million, Apple executives are reportedly concerned about the implications of security breaches in a home setting.

The doorbell is still in early development stages, with Gurman indicating it won't reach the market before late 2025 "at the soonest." If technical or security concerns prove too challenging, Apple may opt to license the technology to established smart home accessory makers like Logitech or Belkin rather than releasing its own branded product.