In a surprising announcement this week, Apple revealed that the highly anticipated “more personalized” version of Siri has been delayed. This update was originally promised last year and was expected to enhance user experience significantly. According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this delay also affects the launch of Apple’s planned smart home hub, which was designed to integrate seamlessly with the upgraded Siri features.
Apple stated that the development of the new Siri features, which are part of its broader Apple Intelligence suite, “will take us longer than we thought to deliver.” The tech giant now anticipates launching these features in the “coming year.” This announcement has raised concerns among consumers eagerly awaiting the enhanced functionalities that Siri is expected to offer.
Mark Gurman’s insights indicate that the new smart home hub, which relies heavily on the advanced capabilities of the upcoming Siri, has also been postponed. Previously, it was speculated that this innovative device could make its debut as early as March 2025. The smart home hub is expected to feature a six-inch touchscreen, designed to be wall-mounted, facilitating video calls and managing various smart home devices. Users would primarily control the device through voice commands, making it an integral part of any connected home ecosystem.
Despite the setback, Apple has reportedly initiated an internal testing program. This program allows select employees to take the smart home hub home and provide feedback on its functionality and design. This step indicates Apple’s commitment to refining the device before its official release, ensuring that it meets consumer expectations and integrates smoothly with the enhanced Siri features.
As Apple navigates these delays, the tech community remains hopeful for a future where the upgraded Siri and the smart home hub can transform the way users interact with technology in their homes. The combination of a personalized voice assistant and a versatile smart home hub promises to elevate the user experience, making daily tasks simpler and more efficient.