TL;DR
Raspberry Pi engineers suggest the Pi 6 is still in development, with a launch expected around 2028 due to supply chain issues and development timelines. The focus will be on performance upgrades rather than new features.
Raspberry Pi engineers confirmed that the Raspberry Pi 6 is unlikely to be released before early 2028, citing ongoing supply chain issues and extended development timelines.
During a Thursday AMA on the r/engineering subreddit, three of Raspberry Pi’s lead engineers discussed upcoming hardware developments. They indicated that, based on historical release cycles—spanning from 2012 to 2023—the Pi 6 is expected roughly 3-4 years after the Pi 5, which launched in 2023. However, due to the current global DRAM shortage and supply chain constraints, the release has been pushed back, with an estimate of early 2028.
The engineers emphasized that the Pi 6’s primary improvements will be performance-related, including a faster CPU and enhanced IO capabilities, rather than new features like built-in AI accelerators or additional ports. Eben Upton, co-founder of Raspberry Pi, mentioned that the focus remains on CPU speed and IO throughput, rather than integrating specific AI chips, viewing the CPU itself as a platform for AI compute.
Why It Matters
This development matters because it sets expectations for the Raspberry Pi community and developers relying on upcoming hardware. A delay until 2028 means the Pi 5 will remain the flagship product for several more years, influencing project planning and hardware investments. The focus on performance upgrades without new features suggests a continued emphasis on stability and compatibility, which are key for many users.
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Background
Historically, Raspberry Pi releases have followed a roughly 3-year cycle: Pi in 2012, Pi 2 in 2015, Pi 3 in 2016, Pi 4 in 2019, and Pi 5 in 2023. The current global supply chain disruptions, especially in DRAM and silicon, have delayed new hardware launches across the industry. Raspberry Pi’s recent focus has been on managing component shortages for existing models, such as the Pi Zero 2W, which faces supply constraints due to high demand for AI chips and limited wafer capacity.
Regarding microcontrollers, Raspberry Pi has developed the RP2350, with recent revisions addressing power and security issues. The company has also indicated that microcontroller shipments have surpassed SBC sales, signaling a shift in focus toward embedded solutions. Software support remains a core strength, with the company investing heavily in libraries, drivers, and OS support, which continues to differentiate Raspberry Pi products in the market.
“The Pi 6 wouldn’t come before early 2028, and the focus will be on a faster CPU and IO, rather than new features.”
— Eben Upton
“Power and security challenges delayed the RP2350 microcontroller’s development, but recent revisions have addressed key issues.”
— James Adams
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet confirmed whether the Pi 6 will include any new features beyond CPU and IO improvements, such as integrated AI accelerators or additional ports. The exact specifications and pricing remain unknown, and supply chain conditions could further influence the timeline.
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What’s Next
Raspberry Pi will likely continue to develop and refine the Pi 6, with official announcements expected closer to 2028. Meanwhile, supply chain issues may prompt interim hardware updates or new models focused on specific markets. The company will also maintain its emphasis on software support, ensuring the ecosystem remains robust.
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Key Questions
When is the Raspberry Pi 6 expected to be released?
Based on current estimates from Raspberry Pi engineers, the Pi 6 is unlikely to launch before early 2028.
What will be the main improvements in the Pi 6?
The main focus will be on a faster CPU and improved IO performance, with no confirmed plans for new features like built-in AI chips or additional ports.
Why is the Pi 6 delayed?
The delay is primarily due to global supply chain shortages, especially in DRAM and silicon wafers, which impact component availability and costs.
Will the Pi Zero 2W or Pi Zero 3 be affected?
The Pi Zero 2W currently faces supply constraints due to substrate shortages, but a new vendor is helping increase capacity. There are no confirmed plans for a Pi Zero 3 yet.
Source: Hacker News
