​​ ​

The Apple Support Community will permanently close on November 20, 2026. Starting today, the site will no longer accept new posts and is available in a read-only state.


You can continue to find trusted guidance and support on the official Apple Support site. 


We want to thank the community members who have contributed their time and expertise to help others with their Apple products.


User profile for user: fatzDomingo
fatzDomingo Author
User level: Level 1
1 points

Replacing Google Doorbell and smart home devices with Apple HomeKit

I’m back!!


My first Apple product was the original iPhone followed by an iPod, marvellous technology… but I moved on. I’ve dabbled in just about every other phone other than Apple. I didn’t completely abandon the marque though, I’m currently on my 2nd MacBook Pro purchased less than a year ago and I’ve had more than a few iPads (they’re just the business) Now that I’ve fallen out with Google I purchased a new iPhone 18 Pro…nice phone. I’ve convinced a nephew & niece to buy MacBooks and iPhones for University… they’re delighted with their purchases also.


Now to business, where or what can you knowledgable souls point me in the direction of replacing my Google Doorbell and other devices that just work. Apple I have the money, now do you have the proven technology to take over my Home. Advice sought from those of you who’ve made a similar transition

Posted on Nov 1, 2026 12:44 PM

Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: MrHoffman
MrHoffman
User level: Level 10
169,243 points

Posted on Nov 1, 2026 1:37 PM

Here is Apple’s introduction to Home and HomeKit: Home app - Apple


For Home, Apple has two doorbells listed: Doorbells - Smart Home Accessories - Home Accessories - Apple


There are third-party listings for doorbells: https://smarthomematrix.com/best-homekit-doorbell-camera/


You may also wish to consider Ubiquiti UniFi for security, access control, cameras, and related, as well as for networking, and other needs. UniFi is just starting to integrate with Matter and Thread, but has many cameras and access control options available within their Protect app.


UniFi info is available for a simple deployment, and the available (free) UniFi network layout and access point placement tools are gonzo. Apple has nothing similar, and no networking gear.


When deciding on your path, also consider whether you want cloud-hosted or cloud-dependent gear, or local gear. UniFi is local storage and local gear with remote access available, unless you opt for using cloud-hosted.


More info:


View in context
2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: MrHoffman
MrHoffman
User level: Level 10
169,243 points

Nov 1, 2026 1:37 PM in response to fatzDomingo

Here is Apple’s introduction to Home and HomeKit: Home app - Apple


For Home, Apple has two doorbells listed: Doorbells - Smart Home Accessories - Home Accessories - Apple


There are third-party listings for doorbells: https://smarthomematrix.com/best-homekit-doorbell-camera/


You may also wish to consider Ubiquiti UniFi for security, access control, cameras, and related, as well as for networking, and other needs. UniFi is just starting to integrate with Matter and Thread, but has many cameras and access control options available within their Protect app.


UniFi info is available for a simple deployment, and the available (free) UniFi network layout and access point placement tools are gonzo. Apple has nothing similar, and no networking gear.


When deciding on your path, also consider whether you want cloud-hosted or cloud-dependent gear, or local gear. UniFi is local storage and local gear with remote access available, unless you opt for using cloud-hosted.


More info:


Replacing Google Doorbell and smart home devices with Apple HomeKit

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.
Learn more