Apple announced several new products at its recent March event, including the iPhone 17e and the MacBook Neo, but the company did not introduce a new Apple TV or a new HomePod mini. Many users expected updates to both devices because rumors about next generation models have circulated since late 2024. However, Apple appears to have delayed those products for a specific reason tied to its upcoming Siri changes.
Both devices play an important role in Apple’s home ecosystem, so Apple usually aligns major upgrades with new software features that improve how the devices work together. This time, the missing piece appears to be the next-generation version of Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, which Apple plans to introduce across several products.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported that Apple designed the next Apple TV and HomePod mini to support a more personalized version of Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. Apple originally planned to release the upgraded Siri earlier, but development delays pushed the timeline back, which likely forced Apple to hold these home products for a later launch.
Siri delay likely holding back new home devices
Apple continues to release new hardware that will support Apple Intelligence over time, but the company appears to want the improved Siri experience ready before introducing major home devices built around voice control. The rumored smart home hub that Apple has reportedly been developing also seems connected to the same Siri timeline.
Current reports suggest the personalized Siri features may arrive with iOS 26.5 or iOS 27. Apple will likely release iOS 26.5 around May after a beta period beginning in April, while iOS 27 will debut at WWDC in June and reach users later in the year. Because tvOS and HomePod software updates usually follow the same schedule, Apple may introduce the new Apple TV and HomePod mini sometime between April and September.
Expected upgrades
Leaks suggest the next Apple TV will include the A17 Pro chip, which supports Apple Intelligence features. The device may also include Apple’s N1 networking chip with support for Wi Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread for improved smart home connectivity.
The next HomePod mini may use an Apple Watch S9 chip or a newer version, along with better sound quality, an updated Ultra Wideband chip, and a possible new red color option. Apple introduced the current Apple TV in October 2022 and the HomePod mini in October 2020, so both products are ready for upgrades once the new Siri platform becomes available.
