Apple was originally expected to launch a new Home product this month, which I’ve been calling ‘HomePad.’ However, reports have pointed to delays related to Apple’s challenges developing new Siri capabilities.Now, per Ming-Chi Kuo, it seems that iOS 19’s new design might be related to HomePad’s delayed launch too.Software issues with HomePad aren’t limited to AI features Ming-Chi Kuo writes in a post on X: Kuo did predict back in December that software issues would push back Apple’s “display-equipped HomePod” into the third quarter of 2025.
At the time, Mark Gurman was still reporting the device would launch in March, and even when that date started slipping for him, it seemed as though HomePad could still launch some time in the spring.Many of us assumed that the software issues plaguing HomePad’s release were entirely related to Apple Intelligence.The new device is expected to tap into the AI Siri capabilities that were originally planned for iOS 18.4, but have now been officially delayed until some time “in the coming year.” But now, per Kuo, it sounds like Siri was only one part of the complication.
The expected major redesign coming in iOS 19 is another key component.9to5Mac’s Take It makes a lot of sense that Apple would need to align the user interfaces across its products, especially since that sounds like a major goal of iOS 19, macOS 16, and more.However, Kuo’s explanation doesn’t necessarily justify delaying a major product.
Siri’s development challenges are one thing, but if the new homeOS that HomePad will run offers a sneak peek of what’s coming with iOS 19, I don’t see how that’s a bad thing at all.Unless, perhaps, Apple expects iOS 19’s design to be in flux over the beta season this summer.In that case, maybe it wants to save itself the trouble of redesigning homeOS elements after the fact by just shipping the new OS once its design plans are more stable.
What do you make of Kuo’s HomePad delay explanation? Let us know in the comments.Best HomeKit smart home accessories TP-Link Tapo 2K camera with HomeKit Secure Video Smart air purifier with Matter HomeKit Garage Door Opener HomeKit smart plug 4-pack ecobee smart thermostat You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day.Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop.
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