The Apple smart home display, internally code-named J490, will not launch until September 2026, after the company postponed its planned March release due to ongoing delays in its artificial intelligence development, Bloomberg reported on March 10, 2026.
The device was originally scheduled for release a year ago. However, repeated setbacks in Apple’s AI roadmap have continued to push the launch date back, making this the latest in a series of disruptions to the project.
Siri Delays Drive Apple Smart Home Display Postponement
A revamped version of Siri, Apple’s digital assistant, sits at the center of the delay. The company has struggled to complete the AI overhaul it first outlined in June 2024, when it said it would modernize Siri using generative AI technology.
Apple has pushed back planned Siri upgrades multiple times amid persistent technical challenges. Consequently, the delays have also triggered internal leadership reshuffles within the company’s AI division.
Apple Signs Multiyear Deal with Google for Gemini AI
To accelerate its AI development, Apple signed a multiyear agreement with Google in January 2026. The deal allows Apple to incorporate Google’s Gemini AI models into upcoming Apple Intelligence features and future versions of Siri.
The partnership marks a notable shift in strategy for Apple, which has historically developed core software capabilities in-house. The agreement signals the company’s urgency to close the gap with competitors in the AI space.
Competitive Pressure from Samsung, Google, and Meta
Apple faces mounting pressure from rivals including Samsung, Google, and Meta Platforms, all of which have moved faster in deploying AI-powered smart devices. Apple’s internal development challenges have slowed its ability to compete directly in this segment.
The smart home display market has grown increasingly competitive. Moreover, consumer expectations for AI-integrated home devices have risen sharply, adding further urgency to Apple’s development timeline.
Future Outlook for Apple’s Smart Home Strategy
Apple has not issued a public statement confirming the September 2026 target date. Bloomberg’s report, citing people familiar with the matter, represents the most specific timeline available for the J490 device.
The September window aligns with Apple’s traditional fall product cycle, which typically includes major hardware and software announcements. The company’s ability to deliver a functional, AI-powered smart home experience by that date will depend heavily on the progress of its Siri overhaul and the integration of Google’s Gemini models.
“Apple postponed this month’s expected release of its long-developed smart home display until September, primarily because its revamped Siri digital assistant is not ready.”
Bloomberg