Raspberry Pi 6 Delayed to 2028 Due to DRAM Shortage
Original: News about Raspberry Pi 6 and Microcontroller Development
Why This Matters
Shows how AI chip demand is disrupting traditional computing hardware timelines
Raspberry Pi engineers revealed in Reddit AMA that Pi 6 launch pushed to early 2028 due to global DRAM shortage. New model will focus on faster CPU and IO rather than new features, with no dedicated AI chip planned.
Three lead Raspberry Pi engineers hosted an AMA on r/engineering subreddit discussing future products. Pi 6 timeline extended to 4-4.5 years from Pi 5's 2023 launch, targeting early 2028 instead of expected 2026-2027 due to global DRAM shortage making current costs prohibitive. Eben Upton indicated Pi 6 will emphasize performance improvements over new features, with faster CPU and IO but no M.2 slot or NPU. Instead, they see 'CPU as venue for AI compute.' Pi Zero 2W supply constraints stem from AI chip production competing for silicon wafers. Pi Zero 3 delayed due to single-sided PCB limitations and expensive LPDDR costs. Pi 3B still sells nearly million units annually. Microcontroller RP2350 development faced power and security challenges, now resolved. Microcontroller shipments surpassed SBC sales in 2025.