According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has delayed the launch of its long-anticipated smart home hub—internally dubbed “J490”—to 2026. The primary reason? Siri’s advanced AI capabilities and the App Intents framework weren’t ready in time, making it impossible to deliver the seamless, context-aware experience Apple envisioned for the device
Key Reasons for the Delay
App Intents Not Production-Ready
App Intents, critical for Siri to execute precise voice commands across third-party apps, remain delayed. Apple won’t launch the hub without this seamless integration .
UI Alignment with iOS 19 and HomeOS
The hub’s interface is tied to HomeOS and UI elements aligned with the upcoming iOS 19 redesign. This alignment slipped past WWDC 2025, contributing to the postponementz
Internal Testing Continues Cautiously
Despite delays, Apple continues internal testing in employee homes. They’re refining hardware—likely a 6–7-inch screen, optional speaker base, wall-mount support—and integrating AI features before a scale launch
🔭 What to Look For Ahead
- Siri AI roll-out: Watch for iOS 19 updates (late 2025–early 2026) that deliver the needed Siri enhancements.
- App Intents progress: Monitor when it becomes stable enough for consumer use.
- Launch window: Apple is targeting 2026, possibly mid-year, once underlying software is ready.
- Competition landscape: Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub remain ahead in smart display space—Apple’s delay gives rivals a lead NewsBytes
✅ Bottom Line
Apple’s smart home hub has been delayed to 2026, primarily due to missing AI features in Siri and the App Intents framework—both central to the device’s voice-first vision. The company is pausing launch to ensure a seamless, integrated experience with HomeOS and iOS advancements, even if it means trailing behind competitors.
