New ‘HomePad’ product gets fresh launch timing update

If you’re interested in Apple’s smart home products, one of the most highly anticipated debuts is a brand new ‘HomePad,’ and this cross between an iPad and HomePod just got a launch timing update via Bloomberg.

HomePad now expected in spring 2026 due to Siri delays

Mark Gurman writes at Bloomberg:

Apple continues to work on a smart home hub code-named J490. Originally planned for March of this year, the device was delayed indefinitely due to its reliance on new Siri voice assistant features that the company postponed. That device may now arrive in the first half of next year.

The history of the HomePad has been filled with unexpected delays. Or at least, that’s what rumors and leaks have indicated.

Last November, Mark Gurman shared an extensive report detailing the new product. At the time, he said Apple was targeting a March 2025 release.

But when Siri’s planned AI upgrades got delayed, the HomePad became collateral damage.

Per Gurman, Siri’s new capabilities are core features of the new Home product.

As a result, while Apple could have chosen to ship the HomePad, and add those features via a software update later, Gurman doubted that would happen.

Now, it seems he may be right.

Apple has confirmed that Siri’s AI upgrades won’t arrive before 2026, and now Gurman believes the HomePad is coming in the first half of 2026 too. Previously, he expected it by the end of 2025.

Separately, Gurman has said that iOS 26.4 in the spring is Apple’s targeted launch for Siri’s delayed improvements.

It seems the HomePad will have to wait until spring 2026 too.

Would you buy a HomePad without Siri’s new features? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.

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