iCloud+’s flagship feature is cloud storage, but Apple continues to improve and expand the service to include other benefits as well. And in iOS 27, iCloud+ offers a new benefit for high storage tiers: AI capabilities for HomeKit cameras.
iCloud+ now includes AI features for HomeKit cameras on 2TB, 6TB and 12TB plans
With iOS 27, iCloud+ added a new benefit if you’re paying for more storage: Apple Intelligence features for compatible home cameras. From the Apple website:
With Apple Intelligence in the Home app, you can automatically generate video descriptions for clips recorded from compatible Home cameras. You can then search your recordings in natural language
These AI-generated video descriptions provide a handy summary of what’s happening in your home, let you browse important clips at a glance, and search recent camera recording history.
All of this is available with a camera that supports HomeKit Secure Video (I recommend this Aqara camera for $35). But because AI features depend on Private Cloud Compute, Apple only offers them on the following iCloud+ plans:
- 2 TB plan: up to 1 camera
- 6 TB plan: up to 2 cameras
- 12 TB plan: up to 5 cameras
Apple charges $9.99, $29.99, and $59.99/month for each of these plans, respectively. So most users probably won’t find the monthly cost worth it for the AI camera features alone. But if you already need a lot of iCloud storage, you’ll now benefit from these new features as well.
Note: These AI features also have additional requirements. You’ll need a home hub like a HomeView, Apple TV 4K, or HomePod, and your iPhone must support Apple Intelligence.
Have you used the new AI features in iOS 27 for home cameras? How do they work for you? Let us know in the comments.
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