Apple’s smart home hub launch reportedly pushed back, here’s why

Apple has delayed the launch of its rumoured smart home hub.
Apple originally planned to announce it in March, but the device likely relies heavily on Siri’s AI capabilities, which have been delayed.
Apple has opened up internal testing, allowing select employees to try the device at home and provide feedback.
Apple has been on a product launch spree, unveiling new iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and even the powerful M3 Ultra chip in just two weeks. But one product is still missing: the long-rumoured smart home hub. According to Bloomberg, Apple has delayed its launch, and the reason lies in the company’s struggle with AI.
The smart home hub, internally codenamed “J490,” is expected to control smart home devices and feature an iPad-like screen. Apple originally planned to announce it in March, but the device likely relies heavily on Siri’s AI capabilities, which have been delayed. The company promised major Siri improvements at the last Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), but those features are still not ready.
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To make sure the hub works smoothly, Apple has opened up internal testing, allowing select employees to try the device at home and provide feedback. This suggests the company is still refining the product, possibly waiting to pair its launch with more polished AI features.
WWDC 2025 is expected to be an important event where Apple can showcase its vision for AI-powered apps and services — and perhaps set the stage for the home hub’s debut.
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Meanwhile, Apple continues to explore new device categories. It’s reportedly working on lightweight AR glasses, smart eyewear similar to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, and even AirPods with built-in cameras to power AI-driven features. However, these projects are still in early development and may take years to become reality.
The smart home hub delay might be frustrating for fans, but it shows that Apple wants to get things right — especially when it comes to AI. And with the company doubling down on testing and refining the product, it’s likely that when the hub finally arrives, it’ll be worth the wait.
Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile