APPLE TV 4K · CURRENT MODEL vs WHAT’S NEXT

Apple TV Box

Everything about Apple’s Apple TV 4K streaming box — storage options, the Siri Remote, and what’s coming in the next refresh.

Apple TV

The Apple TV box is Apple’s dedicated streaming player, running tvOS with tight integration into the Apple ecosystem — AirPlay, HomeKit, Apple Arcade, and Siri all built in. It comes in one physical design with two storage and connectivity tiers. Check us out on YouTube for setup walkthroughs and comparisons against Roku, Fire TV, and Android TV.

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Streaming Devices

The Apple TV Lineup

Unlike Roku or Fire TV, Apple sells one physical box in two configurations — plus a remote worth knowing, and a refresh on the horizon:

Apple TV 4K (64GB, Wi-Fi)

The entry point at $199. A15 Bionic chip, Wi-Fi 6, and everything most people need for 4K HDR streaming.

Apple TV 4K 128GB Wi-Fi plus Ethernet model

Apple TV 4K (128GB, Wi-Fi + Ethernet)

$249 adds double the storage, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and Thread support for controlling smart home devices.

Siri Remote (2nd Gen)

Included with every Apple TV 4K. Aluminum body, clickpad navigation, a Find My chip, and a dedicated power button.

What’s Next: New Apple TV

A refresh with an A17 Pro chip and Wi-Fi 7 is expected in fall 2026, but hasn’t been officially announced yet.

Apple TV 4K: Wi-Fi vs. Wi-Fi + Ethernet

Both Apple TV 4K models use the same A15 Bionic chip and support the same 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos playback — the difference is storage and connectivity, not performance. The 64GB model ($199) connects over Wi-Fi 6 only, which is fine for most homes with a solid wireless signal near the TV.

The 128GB model ($249) adds a Gigabit Ethernet port for a wired connection, plus Thread support — useful if you run smart home devices like HomeKit accessories that rely on a Thread border router. The extra storage also helps if you download a lot of games through Apple Arcade.

Do I need the Ethernet port?

Only if your Wi-Fi is unreliable where the TV is, or you want a Thread border router for smart home devices. Most people streaming over a decent home network are fine with the Wi-Fi-only model.

Should You Wait for the 2026 Refresh?

The current Apple TV 4K launched back in 2022, and a new model with an A17 Pro chip, Wi-Fi 7, and deeper Apple Intelligence features is widely expected in fall 2026 — though Apple hasn’t confirmed pricing or a release date yet. If you’re not in a rush and already own a current-gen device for something else, it’s reasonable to wait a few months. If you need a streaming box now, the existing Apple TV 4K is still fast, well-supported, and unlikely to feel outdated soon; just budget for the same $199–$249 price range, since reports suggest the refresh won’t be cheaper.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between the 64GB and 128GB Apple TV 4K?

Both use the same A15 Bionic chip and support the same 4K HDR playback. The 128GB model adds a Gigabit Ethernet port, Thread support for smart home devices, and double the storage for Apple Arcade games.

Is a new Apple TV coming in 2026?

A refresh is widely expected in fall 2026 with an A17 Pro chip, Wi-Fi 7, and expanded Apple Intelligence features, though Apple hasn’t officially confirmed pricing or a release date.

Do I need the Wi-Fi + Ethernet model?

Only if your Wi-Fi signal is weak where your TV is, or you want a Thread border router for HomeKit smart home devices. Most people do fine with the Wi-Fi-only model.

What chip does the Apple TV 4K use?

The current (3rd generation, 2022) Apple TV 4K uses Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, the same chip family used in several iPhone models.

Does the Apple TV 4K come with a remote?

Yes, every Apple TV 4K ships with the 2nd-generation Siri Remote, which has an aluminum body, a clickpad for navigation, a dedicated power button, and a Find My chip so it’s easier to locate if lost.