New ‘display-equipped HomePod’ to enter mass production after WWDC – Ming-Chi Kuo
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s new display-equipped HomePod, expected to feature a 6-7 inch screen and powered by an A18 processor, is set to enter mass production in the third quarter of 2025, following the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The delay from its initial early 2025 timeline is primarily due to software development challenges, including ensuring compatibility with upcoming OS updates like iOS 19 and integrating Apple Intelligence features. This revamped HomePod aims to reposition the product line as a smart home hub, with an estimated shipment of 500,000 units in the second half of 2025, potentially scaling up if market response is positive.
Three months ago, I predicted that mass production of the new display-equipped HomePod would slip from 1Q25 to 3Q25 (after WWDC) due to software development issues. Beyond Apple Intelligence, the issues also involve ensuring the HomePod’s interface aligns with new OS updates (like iOS 19) set to roll out across other devices in 2H25. This alignment is essential for seamlessly integrating new products into Apple’s ecosystem.
MacDailyNews Take: Until Siri gets much smarter, more reliable and capable, it makes sense to hold off on such a Siri-dependent device, lest it garner a poor reputation out of the gate. HomePod currently is still a fairly frustrating experience due to Short Bus Siri having been criminally neglected by Tim Cook’s Apple for so many years.
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