Back
Technology

Apple Delays Multiple Product Launches, Citing Unfinished Siri Software

Generated on: Last updated: 4 sources
View source

Apple Delays Multiple Hardware Launches to Integrate New Siri & Apple Intelligence

At least four Apple products are reportedly manufactured and ready for distribution but are being withheld from the market while Apple works on software integration.

Multiple reports indicate that Apple has prepared several new hardware products for release but is delaying their launch to integrate updated Siri features and Apple Intelligence capabilities. The affected products include a new Apple TV 4K, a third-generation HomePod, a second-generation HomePod mini, and an unreleased smart home display referred to as "HomePad" or "HomePod Touch."

Delayed Products

According to reporting by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the following products are manufactured and stored in warehouses, awaiting necessary software updates before shipment:

  • New Apple TV 4K
  • HomePod 3
  • HomePod mini 2
  • Smart home display ("HomePad" or "HomePod Touch")

Hardware Specifications

Apple TV 4K

The next Apple TV 4K is not expected to feature a new external design, retaining its current squircle shape and black plastic construction. Reported specifications include:

  • A17 Pro chip (used in iPhone 15 Pro models), built on a 3-nanometer process for improved performance and efficiency. Some speculation suggests Apple could use a newer chip such as the A18 or A19.
  • Apple's N1 networking chip, providing Wi-Fi 7 support utilizing the 6GHz band.
  • Bluetooth 6 support for connecting peripherals such as controllers and earbuds.
  • Thread compatibility via the N1 chip, enabling the Apple TV to serve as a Thread border router and Matter hub for smart home devices.
  • Possible RAM increase if the device supports Apple Intelligence.

The current Apple TV 4K was released in October 2022.

HomePod mini 2

The HomePod mini is rumored to feature:

  • Apple Watch S9 chip or newer
  • N1 chip
  • Enhanced audio quality
  • Updated Ultra Wideband chip
  • Red color option

The current HomePod mini was released in October 2020.

Siri and Apple Intelligence Development Timeline

The development of new Siri AI features has experienced multiple delays, as detailed below:

Timeline Event March 2025 Original target launch for new Siri AI features (missed) WWDC 2024 Features previewed; Apple later described ongoing development as more extensive than what was shown March 2026 (iOS 26.4) Revised target date (not met) iOS 26.5 / iOS 27 Subsequent targets reported by Bloomberg September 2026 (iOS 27) Current anticipated release for significant Siri update

The first developer beta for iOS 26.5 has been released without visible Siri enhancements, leading reports to increasingly indicate iOS 27 as the major release for these capabilities. Gurman previously stated that Apple aimed to introduce personalized Siri features in either iOS 26.5 or iOS 27.

Impact on Product Release

Reports state that Apple intends to integrate Apple Intelligence and new Siri features into these devices before their public release. The new Siri functionality is expected to be released with iOS 27, tvOS 27, and HomePod 27.

Projected release windows have shifted significantly. The new Apple TV 4K is not anticipated before September 2026. Earlier expectations for a late 2025 launch for both the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini 2 have been revised.

Pricing

There have been reports suggesting a possible price reduction for an upcoming Apple TV model. This could involve:

  • Two distinct models: a higher-end version and a lower-spec, more affordable option, or
  • Maintaining the current Apple TV as a budget-friendly choice alongside a new premium model.