Last year, Apple introduced tvOS 17, which added a new feature to allow users to use Continuity Camera by using their iPhone or iPad as an external webcam for Apple TV. This feature was borrowed from macOS Ventura’s feature of the same name. As Apple has been exploring new concepts for its smart home products including the HomePod and Apple TV, Mark Gurman came out with a report in his weekly PoweredOn newsletter that Apple may be working on a future Apple TV with a built-in camera.
This would eliminate the dependency on using external devices for video conferencing. Gurman also expects the new concept to work with several gesture-based reactions, similar to those found in last year’s software platforms such as iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma.
While this concept does sound exciting, I do have one concern though. The Apple TV set box can be placed anywhere. Even when an object is obstructing the front of the Apple TV, inputs from the included Siri Remote will still work as that device also features Bluetooth technology. Ideally, the most optimal position to place the upcoming Apple TV set box is on top of the television, so the camera will be facing directly toward you. I sure hope Apple would bring Center Stage to Apple TV, similar to how it works on both the Studio Display and all of the latest iPad models. For off-center situations, external camera solutions via Continuity Camera would still be the better alternative approach since the built-in camera would not be facing directly at you.
It may go without saying that this is a concept that Apple has been working on, so the final product may never come to fruition for release. However, it’s interesting to see Apple exploring many concepts for the smart home.
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