A little less than four years after its introduction in 2017, the Apple TV 4K is taking a big step up with the recently announced second-generation model.
We'll highlight everything you need to know about the new Apple TV 4K.
A Faster Processor and Better Video
One of the biggest changes to the second-generation Apple TV 4K is under the hood. The streaming box now features the A12 Bionic chip. That's the same processor found in many modern iPhone and iPad models.
With that, the entire experience should be faster and more fluid, no matter if you're just watching a movie or enjoying the latest Apple Arcade release.
And thanks to the processor upgrade, the new Apple TV 4K supports high frame rate High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Dolby Vision video. That means you can watch smooth video at 60fps. You should definitely be able to notice this option the most when watching fast-moving action like sports.
To make the most of the feature, Apple says it is working with video providers including FOX Sports, NBCUniversal, Paramount+, Red Bull TV, and Canal+ to provide the most high frame rate video content possible.
So, we'll hopefully continue to see more streaming options that take advantage of the feature in the future.
While we wait, anyone with an iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 12 Pro Max can already try out the feature for themselves. Those smartphones already shoot 4K video at 60fps. All you need to do to see them on the new Apple TV 4K is to use AirPlay.
There are also a number of smaller, but notable, improvements with the new hardware. The biggest is support for the faster Wi-Fi 6 protocol that offers better speed, more network capacity, and improved power efficiency.
To make use of the faster Wi-Fi, you'll just need to have networking equipment capable of Wi-Fi 6, which is found in popular routers or mesh networking equipment like eero.
The new Apple TV 4K is also the second Apple device to support the Thread smart home protocol, joining the HomePod mini. A major innovation, Thread can make a smart home even better.
The new Apple TV 4K also supports the HDMI 2.1 protocol, which supports up to 120Hz refresh rates, even though the Apple TV 4K doesn't currently support that feature. But that could change in the future, possibly with a new version of tvOS.
Say Hello to a Revamped Siri Remote
One of the most maligned parts of the first-generation Apple TV 4K (and the Apple TV HD) experience was the Siri Remote. It was small, easily lost, and far from user-friendly with a breakable glass trackpad.
Thankfully, Apple apparently listened to the criticism and unveiled a revamped Siri Remote with the new Apple TV 4K. Instead of the all-black color of the previous version that's hard to see in the couch cushions, the new model is a bit larger and features a one-piece aluminum design.
Starting from the top of the remote, you'll notice a new power button for your TV. Combine that with a new mute button further down on the remote and you can control your Apple TV and television with a single remote.
The Siri button is now on the right side of the remote, the same easy-to-find location as on an iPhone.
And instead of a touchpad, the new remote offers a different way to navigate with both an inner clickpad and an exterior ring. The clickpad offers five-way navigation throughout the Apple TV interface. It's also touch-enabled so you can use the same type of popular swipe controls available in the previous model.
The outer ring also supports a great circular gesture that works as a jog control, so you can quickly and easily search for a specific scene in a show or video.
If you're not ready to make the upgrade to the new streaming box, we do have some great news: The standalone revamped Siri Remote is compatible with the Apple TV HD and first-generation Apple TV 4K. And it will be available to purchase separately for $59.
Unfortunately, Apple hasn't made it easier to find the remote if it gets lost. There's no U1 Ultra Wideband or other built-in tracking technology like in the new AirTags. But it shouldn't be long before we see a remote case with a built-in pouch for the tracker.
A Better Picture
The new Apple TV 4K will also feature a unique way for displaying better color and contrast without having to adjust any TV settings. Just take out your iPhone.
With the new Color Balance feature, just place the front of your iPhone near a special screen on the Apple TV. After a quick testing screen, the data from the iPhone's light sensor will be compared with industry-standard specifications used by cinematographers.
Your Apple TV will then match the data and adjust its output. The feature is definitely a big plus for anyone not familiar with their TV settings. Just to note, this feature is also available for the Apple TV HD and first-generation Apple TV 4K as well.
Pricing and Availability
There are two models of the second-generation Apple TV to select from. A 32GB version is $179 while the 64GB model is $199. Unless you download a substantial amount of games and apps, there's no real reason to pay the extra cash for the model with larger storage.
You can order the new model starting on Friday, April 30. It will be shipping to customers from mid-May.
As a nice bonus, anyone who purchases the new model will receive a free year of Apple TV+. It also comes with a free, three-month trial of Apple Arcade, so you can try out the subscription gaming service as well.
Making Apple TV 4K Even Better
It's been a long time coming, but the new Apple TV 4K is a nice upgrade compared to the first-generation model. The revamped Siri Remote, faster processor, and support for high frame rate content make it a great choice for Apple fans.
And the new streaming device is far from the only product that is arriving soon. One of the most exciting new releases is the new iPad Pro lineup, powered by the same M1 processor found in newer Macs.