Overview
- Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that refreshed Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini hardware has been ready since last year but was held to align with a revamped Siri and other Apple Intelligence features.
- Apple Stores are seeing low inventory for Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini, and the full-sized HomePod, with the mini facing the tightest supply and some online orders slipping into early next month.
- Gurman notes Apple could still ship the devices before the full Siri overhaul, though he cautions that low stock does not guarantee an imminent launch.
- If tied to Siri upgrades expected in iOS 26.5 or iOS 27, announcements could arrive any time from late March through September, with the first iOS 26.5 developer beta anticipated in late March or early April.
- The next Apple TV is expected to adopt the A17 Pro and Apple’s N1 chip for Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, while the HomePod mini is rumored to move to an S9‑class chip with improved sound, a newer Ultra Wideband chip, and potentially new colors.