The tentpole feature of iCloud+ is cloud storage, but Apple keeps improving and expanding the service to include other perks too. And in iOS 27, iCloud+ has a new benefit for high-storage tiers: AI features for HomeKit cameras.
iCloud+ now includes AI features for HomeKit cameras on 2TB, 6TB, 12TB plans
With iOS 27, iCloud+ has added a new perk if you pay for more storage: Apple Intelligence features for compatible Home cameras. Per Apple’s website:
With Apple Intelligence in the Home app, you can automatically generate video descriptions for recorded clips from compatible Home cameras. You can then search your recordings using natural language
These AI-generated video descriptions provide a convenient summary of what’s happening in your home, let you browse important clips at a glance, and search the camera’s recent history of recordings.
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:
- 2TB plan: up to 1 camera
- 6TB plan: up to 2 cameras
- 12TB 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 AI camera features alone. But if you already need a lot of iCloud storage, now you’ll get these new features thrown in too.
Note: these AI features have additional requirements too. You’ll need a home hub like a HomeView, Apple TV 4K, or HomePod, and your iPhone must support Apple Intelligence.
Have you used iOS 27’s new AI features for Home cameras? How are they working for you? Let us know in the comments.
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