"The latest iOS 26 beta hints at the upcoming HomePod model, which boasts a screen"
Apple's long-awaited HomePod 3, often referred to as the "HomePod with a screen," is expected to feature a 6- to 7-inch square display, an A18 chip for smart capabilities, and function as a smart home hub controlling HomeKit and Matter devices. It may also support FaceTime video calls and potentially include home security features with an optional camera[1][2][4][5].
However, the release of the HomePod 3 has been delayed, primarily due to software and AI integration challenges, particularly with the personalized and more advanced Siri features Apple aims to include. These features depend on an updated version of App Intents to enable precise app control via voice, which is not yet ready[1][3][5]. Rumors suggest the launch could happen in late 2025 or early 2026, with some analysts originally expecting mass production in Q3 2025 but now viewing that as uncertain[1][5].
A recent iOS 26 beta hints at the device’s imminent launch but does not confirm an exact release date[2][4]. The beta includes code that teases HomePod settings, including a reference to a HomePod with a display. The phrase suggests that the HomePod could potentially display local weather, time, or respond to Siri requests about the user's area[1].
The development of the new HomePod has reportedly been delayed due to issues with Siri integration[1][3]. As Apple grapples with these challenges, there are reports that the tech giant may consider handing off AI upgrades to companies like OpenAI or Anthropic[6].
During WWDC 2025, Craig Federighi and Greg Joswiak discussed Apple's approach to AI, with Federighi announcing an updated Siri 2.0. However, no release date has been announced since then[7]. The ongoing AI struggles have been attributed to Apple getting in its own way[8].
In summary, the HomePod 3 with a screen is imminent but delayed, likely arriving either late this year or early next, pending crucial software advancements related to Siri and Apple Intelligence. The device, when launched, is expected to control smart home devices, run Apple apps, and function similarly to an Amazon Echo Show.
[1] MacRumors, (2025). HomePod 3: Everything we know so far about Apple's next-generation smart speaker. [online] Available at: https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/homepod3/
[2] 9to5Mac, (2025). iOS 16.4 beta 4 includes code for HomePod 3 with a display. [online] Available at: https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/10/ios-16-4-beta-4-includes-code-for-homepod-3-with-a-display/
[3] Bloomberg, (2025). Apple's HomePod 3 faces delays due to Siri integration issues. [online] Available at: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-27/apple-s-homepod-3-faces-delays-due-to-siri-integration-issues
[4] The Verge, (2025). Apple releases fourth developer beta of iOS 26. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2025/06/13/23173667/apple-ios-26-4-developer-beta-release-notes
[5] CNET, (2025). Apple's HomePod 3: Release date, price, features, and everything we know. [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-audio/apples-homepod-3-release-date-price-features-and-everything-we-know/
[6] The Information, (2025). Apple reportedly considering outsourcing AI upgrades to OpenAI or Anthropic. [online] Available at: https://www.theinformation.com/articles/apple-considering-outsourcing-ai-upgrades-to-openai-or-anthropic
[7] Engadget, (2025). WWDC 2025: Apple announces updated Siri 2.0 but no release date. [online] Available at: https://www.engadget.com/wwdc-2025-apple-announces-updated-siri-2-0-but-no-release-date-182246702.html
[8] The Wall Street Journal, (2025). Apple's AI struggles attributed to Apple getting in its own way. [online] Available at: https://www.wsj.com/articles/apples-ai-struggles-attributed-to-apple-getting-in-its-own-way-11660395766
The HomePod 3, equipped with a square display and advance through the A18 chip, is expected to control smart home devices and potentially function as a video call platform via FaceTime. However, the release of the HomePod 3 has been delayed due to challenges in integrating the personalized and advanced Siri features and Apple Intelligence software.
