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There has been much speculation about new versions of the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini – now a concrete release date is emerging: According to a recent report, both devices are expected to be released this fall. The key to this is the revamped Siri, whose launch is finally becoming more concrete. However, no major external changes are expected.
New smart home hardware from Apple has been anticipated for some time, but a clear release date has been lacking. The reason for this was never the hardware itself: its market launch has been tied to the new Siri for months, which in turn has been postponed several times. Now, a report by Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman provides fresh clues – and for the first time, a concrete timeframe.
Market launch in autumn – together with the new Siri
According to the report, Apple is preparing the new Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini models for release later this year – along with the next generation of Siri. This software had been held back for many months because the hardware and AI features were intentionally designed to be released together. Now, after numerous delays, the new Siri is scheduled for release this fall, paving the way for the two devices as well.
The major overhaul of Apple's voice assistant has long been announced: A completely new Siri with its own app and system-wide controls is planned, to be released as part of iOS 27. For Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini, it is the real reason for launching new hardware at all.
Especially a chip upgrade
The changes are expected to be minor and primarily internal. While the report doesn't specify which chips will be used, rumors suggest two upgrades are likely: the Apple TV 4K will switch from the A15 to the A17 Pro chip, and the HomePod mini from the S5 to the S9 chip.
The difference is more than just a performance boost. The A17 Pro would be powerful enough to process AI models directly on the Apple TV 4K. The S9 in the HomePod mini, however, would likely not be sufficient – new Apple intelligence features on the speaker would therefore probably run via the cloud.
Possible new Siri Remote
A visible change could be in store for the remote control. According to the report, a redesigned Siri Remote is conceivable – but how extensive it will be remains unclear. A simple internal overhaul or a completely new design is possible. It could just as easily be a minor, barely noticeable adjustment.
The Apple TV 4K itself is likely to retain its familiar look: The casing still adheres to the industrial design that Apple introduced back in 2010. Anyone hoping for a completely new box will likely be disappointed – the changes are primarily internal and software-related.
Why the schedule might hold this time
Whether Apple will meet the deadline this time is not guaranteed – certainty will likely only come at WWDC. However, several developments suggest that the AI roadmap is now in place. These include internal restructuring, simply more development time, and above all, the fact that Gemini models are being used for Siri via private cloud computing.
If the plan succeeds, living rooms and smart homes could get two refreshed devices this fall – less spectacular in terms of hardware, but closely integrated with Apple's AI ambitions. This integration is likely more important to Apple than a new casing. (Image: Shutterstock / Pascal Huot)
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