Rumors of a next-gen Apple TV had been swirling for most of 2020. In fact, way back in May 2020, we started hearing about tech specs and the notion that Apple could release the sixth-generation device at any point. Well, it turns out that “point” ended up being this week because Apple finally took the wraps off its latest dedicated streaming device as part of an April 2021 product reveal.
This new model will still be called Apple TV 4K, but it’s promising some significant under-the-hood improvements versus its predecessor. That starts with an A12 Bionic chip, a processor that first appeared in the company’s iPhone XS/XR line in 2018. The new hardware also includes high frame rate HDR (high dynamic range) video and Dolby Vision.
For better calibration, you’ll be able to use an iPhone’s light sensors to set color balance on your Apple TV, a process the company says should be easier than fiddling with TV settings.
As far as pricing goes, here’s what Apple shared. A 32GB version will retail for $179 and you can double up on onboard storage with a 64GB model for $199. Preorders will begin on April 30th and availability starts in the latter half of May in the US and more than 30 other regions, Apple says.
There’s also a new remote control packed in as well, which Apple says offers more functionality than previous input devices. It’s called the Siri Remote and the company is promising better navigation accuracy, TV power controls, and an aluminum design that’s reportedly more comfortable to hold in your hand.
The Siri Remote is also available on its own for $59 and is compatible with the older fifth-gen Apple TV 4K, as well as the Apple TV HD. In fact, a bundle that includes the new remote and the Apple TV HD is on its way for $149.
To be fair, the fifth-gen Apple TV 4K, released back in 2017, still works well as a streaming device, but the updated and upgraded hardware specs in this new model should give Apple fans some added choices, especially as support for the 2012-era third-gen model continues to dwindle. Several apps have announced they’re dropping support for the third-gen model, so a new, refreshed Apple TV option is coming seemingly just in time for those who have been holding off upgrading.
Of course, we plan to have much more to say about Apple’s latest streaming device as we learn more and once we get some hands-on time with the new model.
Featured Image: Apple