Apple today announced the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K. The new set-top box brings several new key features including an A19 chip, Siri AI support, an updated Siri Remote with Find My support for Precision Finding, built in far-field microphones, and more.
Siri AI, powered by Apple Intelligence, offers a more personalized and intelligent version of Siri that boasts broader world knowledge, and can better communicate with the users thanks to being more conversational and having personal context understanding. The new Apple TV 4K boasts three far-field microphones that allow users to talk to Siri in a hands-free manner. However, the updated Siri Remote is still equipped with a microphone and a Siri button, if that’s how you prefer to roll.
The new Apple TV 4K is virtually unchanged when it comes to external design, except for a status light that is centered on the front of the device.
The updated Siri Remote now offers supports for the Precision Finding feature in Find My, making it easier to find when it slips down in between the couch cushions. The remote new built-in speaker allows users to play a sound through the Find My app to assist in locating it.
The remote’s overall design has not changed, and it still charges via a USB-C.
Immersive Home Theater
For the first time, users can create a four-speaker surround sound experience with Apple TV 4K (4th generation) and HomePod mini 2. The four speakers work together with Apple TV 4K to intelligently recognize their position in the room so audio timing and levels are automatically calibrated to the space. HomePod (2nd generation) can also be used in this four-speaker setup for the ultimate audio experience, as long as the front and rear speaker pairs match.
A Smarter Home Hub
If you used your old Apple TV as a home hub, you still can, using it to control of your smart home accessories from anywhere. With a compatible doorbell, notifications appear directly on the TV so users can see who’s at the door, speak with them, and control other accessories like unlocking the door. Apple TV 4K supports automations, guest mode, and secure local processing of HomeKit Secure Video. Users can also use Siri AI to control smart home accessories and turn scenes on or off hands-free. The Apple TV 4K’s built-in Wi-Fi and Thread means it can seamlessly connect and control a user’s smart home.
Pricing and Availability
The new Apple TV 4K can be pre-ordered starting today and hits store shelves on Friday, November 13. In the US, pricing is set at $299, and only a single configuration is available. That model includes 128GB of storage, Wi-Fi 7 support, a Gigabit Ethernet port, Bluetooth 6 support, and a rear HDMI 2.1 port.
