Apple Delays Smart Display Launch, Focuses on AI & Siri Upgrade
Apple Delays Smart Display Launch, Cites AI and Siri Development
Apple has postponed the release of its long-anticipated smart display, initially slated for a spring 2025 launch, due to ongoing development challenges with its artificial intelligence capabilities and the overhaul of Siri, according to reports. The company now aims to unveil the device alongside a significant software update in September, aligning the release with the expected completion of key AI features.
The smart display, internally codenamed J490, was envisioned as a central hub for AI functionality within the home, featuring a screen similar in size to an iPad and offering both wall-mountable and base-mounted options. The device’s interface, inspired by the Apple Watch’s home screen, is designed around a circular icon layout for intuitive navigation. A key feature is advanced facial recognition, intended to personalize the user experience by displaying tailored information such as appointments, reminders, and preferred news or music.
The delay underscores Apple’s commitment to delivering a fully integrated and functional AI experience, particularly with the revamped Siri. According to Bloomberg, the company is prioritizing the integration of AI features into its assistant before releasing the smart display. This approach reflects a broader strategy to compete with established players like Amazon and Google in the smart home market.
Apple initially unveiled plans for Apple Intelligence at WWDC 2024 in June 2024, rolling out many features in subsequent iOS releases. Even though, the “Personal Intelligence” features, including the more personalized version of Siri, were delayed. Apple officially announced a one-year delay for these features in March 2025, stating it needed more time to deliver on its promises of a more contextually aware and proactive Siri.
The integration of Google’s Gemini technology is central to Apple’s AI strategy. A multi-year partnership signed in early 2025 positioned Gemini as the foundation for Apple’s base models, enabling complex cross-app actions while maintaining user privacy through Private Cloud Compute and local processing. Industry data suggests the first Gemini-powered enhancements to Siri could debut in the iOS 26.5 beta, expected to be released in late March 2026.
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch the Gemini-powered Siri upgrade in the iOS 26.5 beta by late March 2026, following the release of the iOS 26.4 Release Candidate on March 18. This timeline aligns with reports from industry analysts, who identified iOS 26.5 as the primary vehicle for Gemini integration. The company aims to meet its commitment to deliver advanced AI features within the first quarter of 2026.
The smart display is planned to launch alongside a special version of tvOS 27, Apple’s operating system for Apple TV. Future iterations of the device are also under consideration, including a larger screen with a robotic arm and an integrated home security sensor. Apple’s recent product releases, including the iPhone 17e, MacBook Neo, and updated iPad Air and MacBook Air/Pro models, demonstrate the company’s continued diversification efforts.
The delay of the smart display highlights the critical importance of AI development to Apple’s future product strategy. The company is focused on leveraging its ecosystem of over 2.5 billion users to compete effectively in the smart home market, but success hinges on the seamless integration of hardware and software and the capabilities of its AI-powered assistant.