Apple’s highly awaited new **HomePod**, which is rumored to come with a built-in smart display, is now projected to launch significantly later than originally scheduled.

As per well-known Apple analyst **Ming-Chi Kuo**, the arrival of this enhanced HomePod has been pushed back to the **third quarter of 2025**. Initially expected to debut in 2024, the launch was first postponed to early 2025 and has now been delayed further, most likely until after **Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC)**, commonly held in June. Kuo cites difficulties in **software development** as the main reason for the delay.

### SEE ALSO:
[Apple HomePod (2023) review: Big sound for Apple fans](https://mashable.com/review/apple-homepod-2023-review)

The forthcoming HomePod is anticipated to be a major enhancement over the **2023 version**. Kuo indicates that it will feature a **six to seven-inch display**, utilize Apple’s **A18 chip**, and incorporate **Apple Intelligence**, the company’s cutting-edge AI technology. In contrast to its predecessor, the new HomePod will be marketed more as a **smart home accessory** rather than just a standalone speaker.

A notable capability of the new HomePod will be its ability to show live feeds from **Apple’s upcoming smart home IP camera**, which Kuo had earlier mentioned is expected to launch in **2026**. This represents a significant advancement in Apple’s ambitions to grow its footprint in the smart home sector.

Furthermore, Apple is reportedly developing additional smart home innovations, such as a **smart display with a robotic arm** and possibly a more budget-friendly version of its smart home products down the line.

With these initiatives, Apple seems committed to strengthening its smart home strategy, aiming to offer a more integrated and feature-rich ecosystem for its users.