Apple fans waiting for a refreshed Apple TV or a new HomePod mini may not have to wait much longer, but the holdup reportedly isn’t the hardware. New versions of both devices have been described as essentially ready for launch since last year, yet they remain on the shelf as Apple works to finish its revamped, AI-powered Siri and the next wave of Apple Intelligence features.
The situation points to a major shift in how Apple’s product launches are being timed. Instead of hardware leading the schedule, software is now calling the shots. Apple appears reluctant to release upgraded “smart home” devices until the smarter parts of the experience—especially a more personalized Siri—are ready for public use. Reports also suggest that stock of the current models is running low, which adds to the sense that a launch is planned, but waiting on the software green light.
This delay also highlights Apple’s slower-than-expected progress in artificial intelligence. Traditionally, Apple tends to stick to predictable release rhythms, and it would have made sense for updated home devices to arrive alongside other recent product announcements. The fact that they didn’t suggests Apple sees Siri’s next-generation improvements as core to the appeal of these products, not an optional update that can arrive later.
As for what to expect, the upcoming Apple TV is rumored to jump to the A17 Pro chip paired with 8GB of RAM—often cited as the baseline needed for Apple Intelligence features. It may also include an N1 chip designed to improve connectivity, with support expected for Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, which would make it a stronger fit for modern smart home setups.
The next HomePod mini is also expected to get a meaningful internal upgrade, likely moving to an S9 chip (or something newer). A new red color option has also been mentioned, giving buyers a fresh design choice alongside the performance boost.
So when could these new Apple TV and HomePod mini models actually arrive? With the first developer beta of iOS 26.5 expected in late March or early April, the most likely window for release appears to be sometime between that software cycle and the lead-up to iOS 27. In practical terms, that points to a possible launch between spring and early fall—assuming Apple’s upgraded Siri is finally ready to ship.
