There has been renewed activity surrounding the Apple TV 4K for several months. After Apple last updated the streaming box in 2022, there are now increasing indications of a new model. A major update is expected, featuring more power, new chips, and a clear focus on artificial intelligence. The market launch is currently projected for early 2026.
Apple hasn't updated the Apple TV 4K in an unusually long time. This hiatus is among the longest update intervals for Apple hardware. Precisely for this reason, many assume that the next model will bring more than just minor tweaks. Instead of a routine update, significant technical innovations are expected, especially regarding AI, connectivity, and multimedia.
New chip: A17 Pro instead of A15 Bionic
A code leak suggests that Apple plans to use the A17 Pro chip in the next Apple TV 4K. The current model still uses the A15 Bionic. The A17 Pro not only offers significantly more performance but is also a prerequisite for Apple Intelligence. This makes it highly likely that the new Apple TV will support comprehensive AI features for the first time.
Apple Intelligence and new Siri features
With iOS 26.4, Apple is introducing a revamped version of Siri, which is said to be significantly more powerful than before. This new Siri will also be available on the Apple TV 4K via tvOS 26.4. Older models will likely remain limited to the previous version of Siri. The new Apple TV is expected to exclusively benefit from more intelligent voice commands, improved contextual understanding, and enhanced AI capabilities.
Possible innovations in video and audio
New Apple TV models have often introduced new video and audio formats in the past. Dolby Vision 2 is considered a likely candidate for the upcoming Apple TV 4K. The timing would be opportune, as many current televisions support these standards, and Apple has a tradition of adopting new technologies early.
N1 chip for improved networking
In addition to the main processor, the N1 chip is also expected to be part of the new hardware. This chip was first introduced with the iPhone 17 and is responsible for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread. Besides providing a more stable connection, it is also expected to improve Continuity features between Apple devices. This could particularly benefit the Continuity Keyboard in tvOS, which has not always worked reliably in the past.
Indications of a model with an integrated camera
Bloomberg previously reported that Apple is testing an Apple TV with an integrated camera. Correspondingly, tvOS 26 has received several new FaceTime features that suggest hardware with a camera. It's conceivable that Apple will only offer this feature in a higher-end model. Besides FaceTime, AI-powered applications could also play a role, for example, for personalized features or new user interface concepts.
Delayed market launch and new timeline
The new Apple TV 4K was originally expected for late 2025. This date has apparently been pushed back. A market launch in early 2026 is now considered likely, with March or April being the most common months mentioned.
The delay could be related to Siri's new AI features. Since Apple Intelligence is expected to be a key new feature of the device, it seems logical to link the release to iOS 26.4 and the new Siri version. Furthermore, Apple is expected to unveil the new Apple TV alongside other Home products as part of a broader Apple Home strategy.
Apple TV 4K poised for its biggest update in years
The next Apple TV 4K could be one of the most comprehensive updates in years. The switch to the A17 Pro chip, support for Apple Intelligence, potential improvements to picture and sound, a new network chip, and even an integrated camera paint a significantly more ambitious picture than before. Should the planned market launch in spring 2026 be confirmed, Apple is clearly positioning the Apple TV 4K as a central element in its home and entertainment ecosystem. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Pascal Huot)
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