New Apple TV and HomePod Mini Are Still Missing, Here's Why
Why the New Apple TV and HomePod Mini Haven't Arrived Yet
Apple recently introduced seven new products, including the iPhone 17e and the MacBook Neo. However, many people noticed that new versions of the Apple TV and HomePod mini were not among them.
The Mystery of the Missing Devices
There have been rumors about updated Apple TV and HomePod mini models since late 2024. So, why haven't these devices been released yet? The most likely reason is connected to Siri, Apple's intelligent assistant.
Siri's Upgrade and Product Delays
According to a September report from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the upcoming Apple TV and HomePod mini will both support a smarter, more personalized version of Siri. This new Siri is powered by "Apple Intelligence." Apple initially planned to release this improved Siri last year, but its launch was delayed. It seems this delay has also pushed back the release of the new Apple TV and HomePod mini. We also believe that Apple's long-rumored smart home hub is being held up for the same reason.
While Apple has launched other new products that will eventually work with the more personalized Siri, this advanced Siri is expected to be a major selling point for the brand-new smart home hub, and very likely for the next Apple TV and HomePod mini as well. It's possible that Apple will announce a whole range of new home products together, all linked to this upgraded Siri.
The Role of Google Gemini
In January, Apple and Google announced a partnership. Google Gemini will help power future Apple Intelligence features, including the more personalized Siri, which is expected to arrive this year. Apple hasn't given an exact date yet, but Gurman's reports suggest that the personalized Siri features are currently scheduled for either iOS 26.5 or iOS 27.
When to Expect the New Devices
iOS 26.5 is likely to be released in May, after a period of beta testing in April. iOS 27 will be shown for the first time at Apple's annual developer conference, WWDC, in June, and that update should be available to everyone in September. There will also be corresponding tvOS (for Apple TV) and HomePod software updates released at the same times. This means the new Apple TV and HomePod mini might not be announced until sometime between April and September of this year.
Expected Features for the New Apple TV
Earlier rumors suggested that the next Apple TV would come with the A17 Pro chip. This is the oldest chip that can support Apple Intelligence. The device is also expected to include Apple's N1 chip, which would enable advanced wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, improving connectivity and smart home integration.
Expected Features for the New HomePod Mini
Regarding the HomePod mini, it is anticipated to use an Apple Watch's S9 chip or a newer version. However, it's not entirely clear how this chip would be powerful enough to handle the revamped Siri, which is powered by Apple Intelligence. Other rumored features for the HomePod mini include the N1 chip, which would offer similar connectivity benefits as in the Apple TV. We might also see improved sound quality, a newer Ultra Wideband chip for better device tracking and interaction, and even a new red color option.
Time for an Upgrade
The current Apple TV was introduced in October 2022, and the HomePod mini first appeared in October 2020. This means both devices are certainly due for an update. We are hopeful that the more personalized Siri will arrive in the next few months, and that these two new devices will follow shortly after.
This article, "New Apple TV and HomePod Mini Are Still Missing, Here's Why" first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums
from MacRumors
-via DynaSage
