Apple Inc.'s challenges in artificial intelligence are impacting its product roadmap, leading to a postponement of a long-planned smart home display until later this year, according to individuals familiar with the situation.

The device, internally referred to as J490, was initially targeted for a spring 2025 launch but was deferred to allow completion of a new Siri digital assistant, a core component of the product's user interface.

Apple subsequently aimed to introduce the display this month, anticipating the new Siri would be prepared, said the sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions. With Siri facing another delay, Apple is now pushing back the smart home device's release once more.

This situation highlights Apple's pressing need to advance its artificial intelligence capabilities. Siri is central to the company's AI strategy, with numerous future products relying on the technology. However, Apple has delayed several long-promised features, including some announced to consumers almost two years prior.

This has created a misalignment between the technology giant's software and hardware initiatives. The physical smart display has been completed for several months. The company is now targeting a release around September, coinciding with the expected finalization of the new Siri.

Apple declined to comment on the matter.

The display, resembling a square iPad that can be mounted on a dome-shaped speaker base or a wall attachment, is intended to serve as a central AI hub for home use. Its user interface features a circular arrangement of app icons, similar to the home screen layout of an Apple Watch.

A key feature is a facial recognition system that identifies individuals as they approach the device. Using this data, the product can show personalized information such as calendar events, reminders, notes, and user-specific music and news preferences.

Apple is developing several other AI-powered products, including a pendant, camera-equipped AirPods, and smart glasses. These devices are scheduled for release after the anticipated launch of the new Siri and are unlikely to be affected unless further development issues arise.