Apple’s Smart Display Launch Delayed Due to Siri AI Upgrade Setbacks

Apple’s step towards introducing a smart display, a major addition to its smart home offerings, has been met with a snag in the form of delays in upgrading Siri’s AI capabilities. The smart display, set to serve as a command center for controlling smart home appliances, similar to Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub, will see much of its functionality ride on upgraded Siri capabilities, now facing delays.
The smart display was reported to have been launched early in 2025, with features that would allow users to manage smart home devices, make use of video calls, and access some Apple apps such as Calendar, Notes, and even Messages. It was reported to be powered by a version of tvOS, with Apple Intelligence and giving a more interactive experience through Siri.
But Apple recently did concede that making Siri more capable is behind schedule. What this will likely do is stretch the launch timeline of the smart display because these cutting-edge features in Siri are what support it. That is to say, at its present development stage, it can’t quite roll out the smart home features for being practical for this release.
The delay in Siri AI upgrade also impacts Apple’s broader smart home strategy. Apple had envisioned a smart home hub that would be a “Command Center” for controlling Wi-Fi connected smart home devices. Siri’s feature set was the core of this device’s functionality, allowing it to know more about individuals and get things done across apps.
While this is happening, rivals such as Amazon and Google are making headway in the smart display space. Amazon has promised to increase its Echo Show lineup with Alexa Plus, while Google started rolling out its Gemini platform to some Nest speakers. While these rollouts are at an initial stage and are not yet fully open to consumers, they point toward the competitive nature Apple is in facing in the smart home space.
The smart display would feature a six-inch screen and would potentially be wall mountable. It would incorporate a touchscreen, webcam, speakers, and microphones. It would be mobile with an in-built battery, and users would be able to move it from one room to another. It would also be paired with Apple’s HomeKit for smart home control and would include capabilities like video conferencing and digital picture frame abilities.
In spite of the delay, Apple is proceeding with its smart home strategy. Apple is designing several versions and features of the smart display, including models with different screen sizes and a robotic arm for enhanced mobility. The delay in Siri’s AI upgrade, however, makes it challenging to achieve the timeline for these products, shifting their launch to 2026.
In total, Apple’s release of its smart display has been delayed due to Siri-related complications, impacting its smart home strategy and place in the smart display market. Ongoing development of Siri by Apple leaves its smart home hub in limbo, with potential implications on the overall smart home system.