Apple’s grand return to the smart home arena has hit a few speed bumps. What was once whispered as a 2024 launch has quietly slipped to late 2025, according to the latest chatter. Insiders say the key culprit is the revamped Siri—Apple’s voice assistant is still finding its footing in the AI world, and without a rock-solid Siri, the Home Hub can’t really shine.
Originally touted as the next big thing after Vision Pro, this Home Hub was supposed to tie every gadget in your house together under iOS-friendly management. But after internal delays and shifting priorities, Apple decided it’s better to wait until Siri is more reliable than to ship a hub that leaves users frustrated by voice commands that don’t work.
Even when the hub does arrive, don’t expect fireworks. While Apple marketing loves to use words like “revolution,” the reality may be more modest. Early builds suggest the device will handle core smart home tasks—like controlling lights, cameras, thermostats, and locks—while leaving the more advanced AI features on the back burner.
The Cautious Comeback: Why the Robot Might Be Tamer
Once the Home Hub rolls out, Apple’s next trick was rumored to be a mobile “robot” codenamed J595. Think of an iPad mounted on a motorized stand, complete with a custom-built AI personality that could follow you room to room, offering reminders, video calls, and even a bit of friendly chit-chat.
However, Bloomberg sources report that Apple has quietly shelved some of the robot’s most ambitious features. In the race against time, the company chose to pare back advanced AI behaviors and complex motion routines—presumably to hit a market window sooner and avoid another long delay.
That means the much-hyped Siri interactions might look a lot more like a smart display on wheels than a futuristic companion. Instead of dazzling you with contextual suggestions and proactive tips, the robot could end up feeling a lot like an Echo Show or Google Nest Hub that can roll around your desk.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Apple in Smart Home
It’s easy to feel underwhelmed by these setbacks, but Apple’s smart home ambitions are far from dead. The trimmed-down Home Hub and robot are stepping stones—proof that Apple is serious about Matter, HomeKit, and building a cohesive ecosystem. Future iterations could see many of the cut features reappear once Siri learns some new tricks.
For developers and early adopters, the next year will be a chance to see how Apple’s refreshed HomeKit platform evolves. With rumored Matter support, you’ll be able to control Zigbee, Thread, and Wi-Fi devices all from one app. And if Apple nails the Siri update, the hub could deliver truly natural voice interactions.
Meanwhile, keep an eye on Apple’s broader lineup. The Home Hub may not drop until 2025, but other devices—like an updated Apple TV or Vision Pro accessories—could bridge the gap, offering better HomeKit integration. And if you’re already deep in the Apple ecosystem, the incremental improvements could feel like a no-brainer.
At the end of the day, Apple’s approach to smart home tech might be more evolutionary than revolutionary. If you’re in it for polished software, seamless device syncing, and strong privacy controls, Apple’s ecosystem still has a lot to offer. Just don’t expect a magic home robot—at least, not on day one.
