In addition to the connected home screen that Apple is expected to unveil as soon as October 13, the company clearly has other ambitious projects in the home automation field. Notably a surveillance camera that will be one of the accessories for this famous connected screen.
Project J450: a giant metal lip balm
A few weeks ago, Bloomberg reported that this device “uses AI to keep an eye on the environment, instead of the usual video stream,” and the media recently brought some details on the subject. Codenamed J450, this cylindrical device reportedly looks like a “giant metallic lip balm.” And rather than broadcasting a traditional continuous video stream, the camera simply sends text alerts about the comings and goings of people and pets.
Local AI analysis without recording
Indeed, the camera observes the environment at a deliberately low frame rate, and uses AI to analyze what it captures, without recording a single second of video. Facial recognition thus allows it to identify the people present nearby. Of course, pets are recognized. Apple could thus position this camera as a privacy-respecting alternative, a mantra inseparable from the California company to reassure users reluctant to the idea of installing a digital eye in their living room.
Presumed availability during 2027. Indicative price still unknown. Reminder of the key features of the Apple J450 surveillance camera (rumors): • Type: smart home surveillance camera • Internal code name: J450 • Design: cylindrical metal form factor • Artificial Intelligence: local facial recognition of people and pets • Stream: no video recording or streaming (low-frame-rate operation for local analysis) • Notifications: text alerts of comings and goings • Ecosystem: accessory designed to work in tandem with Apple’s future home automation connected screen