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Raspberry Pi engineers indicated that the Pi 6 is still in development with an expected release no earlier than 2028, focusing on CPU and IO improvements. Meanwhile, microcontroller efforts continue, with supply constraints easing.
Raspberry Pi engineers confirmed that the Raspberry Pi 6 is still in development and is unlikely to be released before early 2028, citing ongoing supply chain issues and a focus on CPU and IO improvements. This indicates a significant delay from the typical release cycle, impacting future planning for developers and enthusiasts.
During an AMA on the r/engineering subreddit, Raspberry Pi lead engineers discussed the timeline for the Pi 6, noting that based on previous release intervals, the new model is expected around 2026 or 2027. However, Eben Upton, co-founder of Raspberry Pi, indicated that due to the global DRAM shortage, a launch before 2028 is improbable. The focus for Pi 6 remains on increasing CPU speed and IO performance rather than adding new features like built-in M.2 slots or AI-specific hardware, as the company sees the CPU as the primary platform for AI compute.
Regarding the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W, supply chain constraints are easing as a new vendor increases capacity, but a Pi Zero 3 is not currently planned, mainly due to the need to transition from single-sided PCBs and the high cost of newer LPDDR RAM. Eben Upton also emphasized that the Pi 3B remains popular, with nearly a million units sold annually, despite its age.
On microcontrollers, development of the RP2350 has faced challenges related to power consumption and security. A new silicon revision addressed a current leakage bug, improving reliability. Microcontroller shipments are now surpassing SBC sales, with the gap likely widening as Pi prices increase. Software support remains a core strength, with the engineering team dedicating most resources to libraries, drivers, and OS development to ensure a robust ecosystem.
Why It Matters
This update is significant because it signals a potential delay in the next generation of Raspberry Pi hardware, which could impact educational, hobbyist, and industrial users planning projects around new features. The focus on CPU improvements without additional AI hardware suggests a strategic shift towards more versatile computing rather than specialized AI chips. The ongoing microcontroller development and supply chain improvements also indicate continued growth in embedded systems, which are critical for IoT and automation applications.
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Background
The Raspberry Pi project has maintained a roughly three-year cycle for major releases, with the Pi 5 launching in 2023. Previous models like the Pi 4 and Pi 3 followed similar timelines, but supply chain disruptions, especially the global DRAM shortage, have introduced delays. The company has emphasized hardware improvements—faster CPUs and IO—while avoiding new features that increase silicon complexity. Microcontroller development has been active, with recent shipments surpassing SBC sales, reflecting broader industry trends in embedded systems.
“The Pi 6 probably won’t come before early 2028, and the focus will be on faster CPU and IO, not new features.”
— Eben Upton
“Microcontroller shipments finally surpassed Pi SBC sales in 2025, and the gap is likely widening this year.”
— James Adams
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear whether any new features beyond CPU and IO improvements will be incorporated into the Pi 6, or if the release timeline might shift further due to ongoing supply chain issues. Details about the final specifications and pricing are also still unconfirmed.
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What’s Next
Next steps include continued development and testing of the Pi 6, with official announcements likely closer to 2027. Supply chain stabilization and further hardware design refinements are expected, alongside ongoing support and updates for existing models.
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Key Questions
When is the Raspberry Pi 6 expected to be released?
The Raspberry Pi 6 is unlikely to be released before early 2028, according to current estimates from Raspberry Pi engineers.
Will the Pi 6 have new features like built-in M.2 or USB-C ports?
Based on current statements, the focus will be on CPU speed and IO performance, with no confirmed plans for major new features like an M.2 slot or USB-C ports.
Why is the Pi 6 delayed so long?
The delay is primarily due to global supply chain issues, especially the DRAM shortage, which affects the availability of key components.
Is there a new Raspberry Pi Zero model coming soon?
There is no immediate plan for a Pi Zero 3; supply constraints are easing, but the focus remains on existing models and capacity improvements.
How is Raspberry Pi progressing with microcontroller development?
Microcontroller shipments are now surpassing SBC sales, with ongoing improvements in power and security, and recent silicon revisions have addressed previous bugs.
Source: Hacker News
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