Apple Delays Smart Home Hub Launch Due to Siri Feature Delays

Apple has pushed back on releasing its anticipated smart home hub after it suffered delays in the development of new Siri features. The smart home hub, often referred to as a “Command Center,” was originally planned to be released as early as March 2025. Utilizing advanced Siri features, which is part of Apple’s broader Apple Intelligence suite, however, pushed back the release of the device.
The home hub is designed to be the master control for managing Wi-Fi connected smart home devices. The device is rumored to feature a six-inch screen and allow users to manage their smart home devices, make video calls via FaceTime, access different Apple apps, and more. The device’s functionality will be dependent on Siri’s improved capabilities, including more personalized interactions as well as performing tasks between apps.
Apple initially planned to introduce these enhanced Siri features with iOS 18, but the firm has now come out and said that these features will take longer than anticipated to bring out. The new schedule suggests these features will not appear until iOS 19, and Apple explained that they would arrive sometime next year.
The sluggish pace with Siri has tremendous implications for Apple’s smart home ambitions. Apple had hoped to compete more boldly with rivals like Amazon and Google, which have established smart home platforms. Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub have been top sellers for some time now, and Apple’s delays may give those competitors more leeway to continue developing their offerings.
Despite the setback, Apple has started an internal testing process for the smart home hub. A few of the employees can take the product home to provide input, and it will help Apple refine the product before eventually launching it. The testing time indicates that Apple still wants to release the product, even if they take a long time before they’re prepared with the crucial Siri features.
The smart home hub will, reportedly, have the look and feel of a mini iPad in that it would be a square device and used for purposes beyond smart home command. The hub will support more than one Apple app, with users able to view photographs, glance through calendars, and enjoy music. The hub is said to run using a new operating system by Apple, possibly being homeOS, and would sport a front-camera and rechargeable battery.
Apple’s delay in the smart home hub reflects the challenge the firm is facing in integrating advanced AI features in its products. The launching of Siri’s enhanced features reflects the importance of AI in Apple’s move to capture the smart home market. While the delay may be infuriating to some consumers, it is reflective of Apple’s determination to launch a product that is of a good quality and fulfills its standards of innovation and usability.