Another Delay for Apple's Home Hub

Apple fans will have to temper their excitement as the highly anticipated Smart Home Hub faces yet another delay, now slated for a launch in 2026 instead of the previously expected 2025.

Dubbed the Home Hub and codenamed J490, this central smart home controller has been in development for years. Despite rumors suggesting a near release, the reality is that consumers will need to wait longer for this innovative technology.

Siri Updates Hold Up the Launch

According to Mark Gurman in his latest "Power On" newsletter for Bloomberg, the delay is primarily due to pending updates for Siri. Initially aimed for debut in iOS 18.4, these crucial updates have yet to materialize, hindering the Home Hub’s functionality.

These updates are supposed to enable Siri to utilize a user’s screen and personal data for enhanced interactions within the smart home network. The Home Hub is also said to depend on Apple's Intelligence App Intents, which would provide Siri with greater command over apps and features.

Expectations Set for 2026

Given these setbacks, Gurman now expresses little hope for a 2025 launch. Instead, he emphasizes that the Home Hub is more realistically expected to debut alongside the much-needed Siri updates in 2026.

Gurman is known for his reliable inside information regarding Apple, making his recent update a crucial point for tech enthusiasts.

A Rocky Path Ahead

This isn't the first time Gurman has reported on delays for the Home Hub; similar news emerged back in April, pinpointing Siri’s updates as the primary obstacle. In January, he had expressed optimism for a late 2025 release, showcasing how drastically the timeline has shifted.

Despite these hiccups, updates confirm that the Home Hub remains an active project within Apple, with reports suggesting the device is currently undergoing real-world testing by select Apple employees.

What This Means for Smart Home Users

While the delay may be disappointing, it signals Apple's commitment to delivering a polished product. The Home Hub has the potential to revolutionize smart home technology, and with the right enhancements, it could redefine how we interact with our devices.