Apple TV K: What's Coming in the Next Major Update?

Apple TV+ has been making waves with an impressive lineup of content, but one device in particular is expected to see a significant update this year—the Apple TV 4K streaming box. Since its last major revision in 2022, tech enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating what’s next for this powerful streaming device. The upcoming update promises to enhance the user experience, and we’re expecting some exciting new features. Here’s a look at four key upgrades likely to arrive with the new Apple TV 4K later this year.

The current generation of Apple TV 4K, released in 2022, still packs a punch with the A15 Bionic chip, which was cutting-edge at the time of launch. However, as Apple continues to advance its silicon capabilities, it’s clear that the next iteration will need an upgrade to stay competitive in the world of AI and gaming. So, what should we expect from the next Apple TV 4K? Let’s dive into the details.

1. A17 Pro or A18 Chip Upgrade

While the A15 Bionic chip in the current Apple TV 4K is impressive, newer applications and advanced software are pushing the limits of what it can handle. Apple’s continuous innovations in silicon have brought forth the A17 Pro and A18 chips, which are the most likely candidates for the next Apple TV 4K. These chips are designed to handle the increased demands of AI features and modern gaming experiences. The new chip will not only improve the overall performance but also bring a much-needed upgrade to the gaming and multimedia experience.

2. Apple Intelligence Support

Apple has been incorporating AI into its ecosystem across various devices, and the Apple TV 4K is next in line to receive its share of Apple Intelligence. Previously, Apple Intelligence was available only on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, but with the recent addition of Vision Pro and upcoming watchOS 12 updates, the Apple TV 4K is set to benefit from AI-powered enhancements as well. Expect features like personalized TV recommendations based on your mood, the ability to jump to specific scenes with a simple description, and even real-time music identification. These AI-driven improvements will work hand-in-hand with Siri, which is expected to receive major upgrades with the release of iOS 19.

3. Apple’s First Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Chip

Apple has been working on its own in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip for years, and it’s finally nearing completion. This proprietary chip will make its debut in the new Apple TV 4K, ushering in improvements like tighter integration with Apple’s ecosystem, enhanced energy efficiency, and faster data synchronization between devices. As Apple continues to move away from third-party components, this new chip will likely give the Apple TV 4K and other smart devices a seamless connectivity experience.

4. Wildcard: Built-in Camera

This feature is still up in the air, but it’s a possibility that could change the way we interact with the Apple TV 4K. Mark Gurman, a reliable source for Apple rumors, has mentioned that Apple is considering adding a built-in camera to the Apple TV 4K. This would enable FaceTime video calls directly from the device and allow for gesture-based controls, creating a more interactive experience. The camera could also work in tandem with Apple’s Vision Pro and iPhone devices, enhancing the overall smart home ecosystem.

What Undercode Says:

Apple’s approach with the Apple TV 4K update seems to be consistent with its strategy of gradually advancing its hardware and software to create a seamless ecosystem. While many of these features may appear incremental on their own, together they represent a significant leap in the user experience.

The inclusion of the A17 Pro or A18 chip would boost the processing power of the Apple TV 4K, enabling it to handle future software and game titles without any noticeable lag. The demand for a better gaming experience is evident, and the new chip would allow Apple to position its streaming box as not just a content hub but a gaming powerhouse as well.

The push for Apple Intelligence is particularly intriguing. Apple has always been known for its attention to user experience, and incorporating AI into the Apple TV 4K would add another layer of personalization to its already impressive interface. The ability to recommend shows based on mood or quickly jump to a particular scene using voice commands is something that could revolutionize the way we interact with our TVs. Siri’s impending upgrade in iOS 19 further adds to the anticipation, as it could make voice control more powerful and intuitive than ever before.

Apple’s decision to bring its own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip into the Apple TV 4K is a major step forward in terms of connectivity. As more and more smart home devices rely on stable and fast wireless connections, this proprietary chip could lead to better synchronization between Apple devices. The potential for increased energy efficiency is another big win for consumers, especially in terms of environmental impact and battery life.

The addition of a built-in camera may seem like a stretch, but it would be a game-changer for users who want to use FaceTime directly through the Apple TV. No longer would you have to rely on Continuity Camera with your iPhone to make video calls. A built-in camera would provide a more integrated solution for video chats, and the addition of gesture controls could open up a whole new way to interact with the device. In a world where smart home devices are increasingly using cameras, it’s not hard to imagine how this feature could work in harmony with other Apple products.

Fact Checker Results:

Apple is likely to incorporate the A17 Pro or A18 chips into the upcoming Apple TV 4K update for enhanced AI and gaming capabilities.
Apple Intelligence will be integrated into the Apple TV 4K, enhancing features like personalized recommendations and scene jumping.
A built-in camera is still a rumor but could provide FaceTime capabilities and gesture controls, aligning with Apple’s smart home strategy.