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https://appleinsider.com/articles/19/06/03/homekit-will-securely-store-videos-in-icloud-explicit-router-support-coming Apple has partnered with multiple manufacturers to bring Homekit management ...
I believe Netgear is already an Apple HomeKit licensed developer since they have added HomeKit Secure Video to their Arlo devices. Apple stopped requiring chip authentication in 2017 and it can now be done with software. Basically Apple gave up a licensing fee to encourage more manufacturers adaptation of HomeKit. Source: https://www.theverge.com/2017/6/8/15761800/apple-homekit-updates-ios-11-easier-build-requirements-wwdc-2017
My speculation: This means that if Netgear chooses to not add HomeKit Secure Router as a firmware update to the Orbi platform is because it would financially undercut the armor and circle services they want you to pay for. Linksys and Eero are good competitors that offer HomeKit Secure Router and if you are interested in that feature I would suggest determining how long you are willing to wait for Netgear to make a clear announcement/response before moving to the competition.