TL;DR
Raspberry Pi engineers suggest the Pi 6 won’t be released before 2028, with focus on faster CPUs and IO. Microcontroller development continues, with supply issues easing. Software remains a key strength.
Raspberry Pi engineers have indicated that the Raspberry Pi 6 is unlikely to be released before early 2028, citing development timelines and global supply chain constraints, especially for DRAM and silicon wafers. This suggests the Pi 5 will remain the flagship model for at least the next couple of years, with focus on incremental hardware improvements rather than new features.
During an AMA on the r/engineering subreddit, Raspberry Pi’s lead engineers discussed the development timeline for the Pi 6, noting that based on historical release cycles, a launch before 2028 is unlikely. Eben Upton, co-founder of Raspberry Pi, mentioned that development is already underway but delayed by the ongoing global DRAM shortage, which affects the cost and availability of new units. The planned improvements for the Pi 6 will center on a faster CPU and enhanced IO performance, rather than new features like built-in M.2 slots or additional ports, as the focus remains on more processing power and speed.
Regarding microcontrollers, Raspberry Pi continues to develop its RP2350 microcontroller, with recent revisions fixing issues like current leakage. Supply constraints for the Pi Zero 2W are easing, thanks to new vendor partnerships, but a Pi Zero 3 is not currently planned, primarily due to cost and hardware compatibility challenges. Eben Upton also highlighted that Pi Zero 2 W still benefits from old LPDDR2 RAM stockpiles, helping maintain its low price point despite supply issues.
Why It Matters
This update matters because it clarifies the future roadmap for Raspberry Pi, indicating a delay in the next flagship SBC and emphasizing the company’s focus on incremental hardware improvements. It also underscores ongoing supply chain challenges affecting the availability of popular models, which impacts hobbyists, educators, and industry users relying on affordable, versatile computing platforms. The emphasis on CPU and IO upgrades without additional features suggests a strategic shift toward performance rather than feature expansion, influencing the competitive landscape of single-board computers.
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Background
Historically, Raspberry Pi has released new flagship models approximately every 3-4 years: Pi 3 in 2016, Pi 4 in 2019, and Pi 5 in 2023. The delay for Pi 6 aligns with broader global supply chain disruptions, especially shortages of DRAM and silicon wafers, which have affected electronics manufacturing worldwide. The company has also been managing component shortages for the Pi Zero series, which remains popular despite their age. Meanwhile, microcontroller development, including the RP2350, continues to advance, with recent hardware revisions improving power efficiency and stability.
“Development of Pi 6 is already pretty far along, but global DRAM shortages mean it likely won’t launch before early 2028.”
— Eben Upton
“Power and security challenges in microcontroller development were tougher than expected, but recent revisions have addressed key issues.”
— James Adams
“Our software support remains a core strength, with 95% of engineering effort dedicated to libraries, drivers, and OS support.”
— Gordon Hollingworth
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear whether the Pi 6 will include any significant new features beyond CPU and IO improvements, or if delays will extend further due to ongoing supply chain issues. The exact release date remains tentative, and future hardware revisions or feature additions could alter the current outlook.
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What’s Next
Raspberry Pi will likely continue refining its microcontroller lineup and managing supply chain challenges in the near term. The company may also provide further updates on the Pi 6 development status, possibly announcing a more concrete timeline as supply constraints ease. Watch for new hardware revisions or software enhancements that could influence upcoming product launches.
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Key Questions
When is the Raspberry Pi 6 expected to be released?
Based on current statements, the Pi 6 is unlikely to launch before early 2028, due to development timelines and supply chain constraints.
Will the Pi 6 have new features like built-in M.2 slots?
No. The focus for Pi 6 will be on faster CPUs and IO performance, rather than new features such as additional ports or built-in storage options.
What is the status of the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W supply?
The supply issues are easing thanks to new vendor partnerships, but shortages may still occur until capacity stabilizes.
Is a Pi Zero 3 in development?
No current plans for a Zero 3 have been announced, primarily due to hardware and cost considerations.
Source: Hacker News
