TL;DR
Raspberry Pi engineers indicated the Pi 6 development is progressing but unlikely to launch before early 2028 due to supply issues and strategic focus on CPU improvements. Microcontroller shipments are surpassing SBC sales, highlighting shifts in Raspberry Pi’s hardware focus.
Raspberry Pi engineers confirmed that the Raspberry Pi 6 is unlikely to be released before early 2028, citing supply chain challenges and strategic focus on CPU performance improvements rather than new features.
During an AMA on the r/engineering subreddit, Raspberry Pi lead engineers discussed the upcoming Pi 6, noting that its development is advanced but delayed by global DRAM shortages. They indicated that the typical release cycle suggests a launch around 2026 or 2027, but current estimates place it closer to 2028. The Pi 6 is expected to feature a faster CPU and improved I/O capabilities, with no plans for major new features like built-in M.2 slots or AI-specific chips, as the team views the CPU as the primary venue for AI compute.
Regarding the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, supply constraints are easing thanks to a new vendor, but shortages are expected to persist temporarily. No Pi Zero 3 is currently planned, partly due to the need to redesign the PCB for newer RAM modules, which are too expensive for the Zero’s price point. Despite being over a decade old, the Pi 3B remains popular, selling nearly a million units annually. The engineers also highlighted that microcontroller shipments, including the RP2350, are now surpassing single-board computer sales, reflecting shifting priorities in Raspberry Pi’s product focus.
Why It Matters
This update clarifies that the Raspberry Pi 6 will likely arrive in 2028, influencing planning for developers and hobbyists. The focus on CPU improvements over new features indicates a strategic shift toward performance. The ongoing supply chain issues highlight challenges in hardware manufacturing, which could affect availability and pricing. The rise in microcontroller shipments suggests a growing emphasis on embedded and IoT applications, potentially reshaping Raspberry Pi’s market approach and product offerings.
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Background
Since its launch in 2012, Raspberry Pi has followed a roughly three-year cycle for major hardware updates, with the Pi 5 released in 2023. Previous models like the Pi 3 and Pi 4 set the pace for hardware evolution, but recent global supply chain disruptions, especially in DRAM, have delayed new releases. The company’s focus has shifted toward optimizing existing hardware and developing microcontrollers, with recent shipments surpassing SBC sales in 2025, signaling a broader move into embedded systems and IoT markets.
“The Pi 6 probably won’t come before early 2028, given current supply constraints and our focus on performance upgrades.”
— Eben Upton, Raspberry Pi founder
“Microcontroller shipments finally surpassed SBC sales in 2025, indicating a shift toward embedded applications.”
— James Adams, Raspberry Pi Microcontroller Lead
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear whether the Pi 6 will feature any significant new hardware capabilities beyond CPU and IO improvements, or if supply chain issues will cause further delays. Details on specific hardware configurations and pricing are also still unconfirmed.
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What’s Next
Raspberry Pi will likely continue development and testing of the Pi 6, with a potential announcement closer to 2028. Supply chain improvements and further hardware details are expected to emerge in the coming years, alongside updates on microcontroller product lines.
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Key Questions
When is the Raspberry Pi 6 expected to be released?
Based on current estimates, the Pi 6 is unlikely to launch before early 2028 due to supply chain issues and development timelines.
What are the main features expected in the Pi 6?
The Pi 6 is expected to focus on a faster CPU and improved IO capabilities, with no major new features like built-in M.2 slots or dedicated AI chips.
Why is the Pi Zero 2 W still in short supply?
Supply constraints are mainly due to high demand for AI chips and wafer capacity issues, though a new vendor is helping to increase production temporarily.
Will there be a Pi Zero 3?
There are no current plans for a Pi Zero 3, as redesigning the PCB for newer RAM modules and cost considerations are delaying development.
How is Raspberry Pi shifting its focus with microcontrollers?
Microcontroller shipments, including the RP2350, are now surpassing SBC sales, indicating a strategic move toward embedded and IoT applications.
Source: Hacker News
