The Apple TV 4K hasn't been updated since 2022, and it's time for a refresh. An update is planned for 2026, but Apple will likely wait to release it after the launch of Siri AI in iOS 27. This wait has caused impatience among users, as technology evolves rapidly and demands for more powerful and efficient devices increase.
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Apple TV design updates don't happen often, and that's not going to change. The Apple TV 4K will have the same squircle shape as the current model and will continue to be made of black plastic. Despite the lack of external changes, maintaining this design has proven successful, as it offers a discreet and elegant look that fits into any modern living room.
The biggest upgrade expected is the new A-series chip. Rumors suggest that Apple plans to use the A17 Pro, which was first introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models. The A17 Pro, built on a 3-nanometer process, offers faster speeds and better performance. It features ray tracing for higher-quality graphics in games and supports AV1 decoding acceleration, which is useful for streaming content. These features make the Apple TV 4K a great choice for gaming and streaming enthusiasts, offering an experience that approaches that of game consoles.
The A17 Pro is the oldest chip that supports Apple Intelligence and is also used in the iPad mini 7. Given that Apple has delayed updating the Apple TV for so long, it's likely that it will get an even newer chip like the A18 or A19. A RAM upgrade is also possible, especially if the Apple TV has any Apple Intelligence support. Adding more RAM could improve app performance and allow more demanding apps and games to run.
The Apple TV 4K is ready to launch, but new Siri features are the stumbling block. Apple wants to launch the Apple TV with the smarter version of Siri it’s testing in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that the Apple TV is tied to “new artificial intelligence capabilities” that Apple has delayed until iOS 27, which is due out in September 2026. Apple had intended to introduce Siri capabilities with Apple Intelligence in the spring of 2026, but the company has been struggling with Siri.
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At this point, we won’t see any new Siri features until iOS 27, which also means a delay for all the devices Apple keeps. Along with the Apple TV, the rumored home hub, and a new version of the HomePod are also awaiting the release of Siri AI. The updated Siri features may require more RAM and a faster chip, so if you want the smartest Siri on your Apple TV, that’s another reason to wait before making a purchase. The integration of Siri AI could revolutionize the way users interact with the Apple TV, offering more natural and accurate voice commands.
The Apple TV could get Apple's N1 networking chip with support for Wi-Fi 7.Wi-Fi 7 works with the 6GHz band offered by newer routers. 6GHz connectivity is faster and less congested, which is something you want for a streaming device. This upgrade could significantly improve the streaming experience, reducing lag and offering a more stable connection.
The Apple TV 4K could get Bluetooth 6 for connecting devices like controllers and headphones. Apple's N1 chip also supports Thread, so the Apple TV will be able to continue to act as a Thread border router and Matter hub for smart home devices. This makes the Apple TV a central point for managing smart home devices, offering convenience and flexibility for users. It's possible that Apple will introduce a new Siri Remote alongside the Apple TV, although it's unclear what Apple might change. The new remote could offer improved ergonomics or new features that will make it easier to navigate and use the Apple TV.
There have been rumors of a price cut, but with the price increase set for the 2022 Apple TV and all Macs and iPads in June 2026, a lower price is unlikely. Pricing remains a critical issue for consumers as it influences their purchasing decision, especially in a time of uncertain economic conditions.
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With Siri AI set to launch in September in iOS 27, we could see the Apple TV get a refresh around the same time as the new iPhone models. The launch of the new Apple TV could coincide with the unveiling of other new Apple products, creating a wave of excitement and interest in the market. Waiting for the new model could prove beneficial for consumers, as they will have the opportunity to own a device that combines the latest technology with the most modern artificial intelligence capabilities.
