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The 2026 Apple TV 4K (4th generation) is a substantial upgrade over the 2022 Apple TV 4K (3rd generation), not because the older box stopped being capable, but because Apple changed how you interact with it. The new model adds an A19 chip, hands-free Siri AI through three far-field microphones, a Find My-capable Siri Remote, Wi‑Fi 7, AV1 decoding and a four-speaker HomePod surround mode.
The 4th-generation model launches in the United States at $299 with 128GB of storage and is scheduled to reach Apple stores on November 13, 2026. The 3rd-generation model remains a good 4K HDR streamer and is still eligible for tvOS 27, so upgrading makes the most sense when you specifically want the new voice, remote, networking, codec or audio features.
What changes with the 4th-generation Apple TV 4K?
The 2026 Apple TV 4K keeps the familiar tvOS experience but adds hardware intended to make search, smart-home control and home theater more conversational. Its A19 system-on-chip is rated by Apple at up to 50 percent faster CPU performance and up to twice the GPU performance of the previous generation. Those are Apple “up to” claims rather than independent benchmark results.
The A19 also includes a dedicated AV1 decoder. AV1 can deliver high-quality video at lower bitrates than older codecs, which may help streaming services reduce bandwidth use while maintaining image quality. Actual benefits depend on whether a service supplies AV1 streams and on your internet connection.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K High Dynamic Range (Dolby Vision and HDR10) for stunning picture quality
- Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound
- A10X Fusion chip for ultra-fast graphics and performance
- Voice search by asking the Siri Remote
Hands-free Siri AI
Three far-field microphones with voice isolation are built into the new box, so you can speak to Siri without holding the remote. Siri AI can search conversationally, answer follow-up questions about a show, use personal context through a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, and control supported Apple Home accessories.
On Apple TV, Siri AI is a beta feature. Setup requires an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, and launch language and regional availability are limited. Apple also notes that some Siri features and content vary by country and hardware.
A remote you can locate
The 4th-generation Siri Remote keeps the clickpad layout and USB‑C charging but adds Find My, including Precision Finding, plus a sound option for locating it. That addresses one of the most common practical frustrations with a small remote that disappears between sofa cushions. The 2022 remote supports Siri through a button, but it does not have this built-in Find My capability.
Rank #2
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
New four-speaker HomePod surround system
For the first time, Apple TV 4K can create a four-speaker surround system from matching front and rear pairs of HomePod (2nd generation) or HomePod mini 2 speakers. The speakers calibrate timing and volume levels to the room rather than simply playing the same audio from every unit.
Four matching speakers are required and are sold separately, so this is an ecosystem feature with a significant additional setup cost. It is most relevant if you already own four compatible HomePods or want an all-Apple alternative to a soundbar and rear-speaker package. The Apple TV itself still needs an HDMI cable for connection to the television.
Apple TV 4K (4th generation) vs 3rd generation: specifications
| Specification | Apple TV 4K (4th generation, 2026) | Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A19, with dedicated AV1 decoding | A15 platform |
| Apple-stated performance | Up to 50% faster CPU and up to 2x faster GPU than the previous generation | Baseline for Apple’s comparison |
| Storage | 128GB standard | 64GB or 128GB, depending on configuration |
| Wireless networking | Wi‑Fi 7 (802.11be), 2×2 MIMO | Wi‑Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 6 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Wired networking | Gigabit Ethernet | Only the 128GB A2843 configuration includes Gigabit Ethernet |
| Thread | Included | Included on the 128GB A2843 configuration |
| Video output | Up to 2160p at 60fps; Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Up to 4K at 60fps; HDR10, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision |
| Video codecs | AV1, VP9, HEVC, H.264 and MPEG‑4 | Previous-generation codec support; AV1 decoding is not listed |
| HDMI | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
| Remote | 3rd-generation Siri Remote with Find My, Precision Finding and sound locating | 3rd-generation Siri Remote without Find My locating |
What remains the same on the 2022 Apple TV 4K
The 3rd-generation hardware still handles the core job well: 4K HDR streaming, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDMI 2.1 and Apple ecosystem integration. It supports tvOS 27, so owners are not being forced to upgrade simply to receive current operating-system updates. Earlier Apple TV models are no longer supported by current tvOS releases, but the 2022 generation remains eligible.
Rank #3
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Apple sold two 2022 configurations. Model A2737 has 64GB and Wi‑Fi. Model A2843 has 128GB, Wi‑Fi, Gigabit Ethernet and Thread. If you are considering a discounted 3rd-generation unit, A2843 is the closer comparison to the new model because it includes wired networking and Thread. A2737 is the lower-cost choice for installations that only need Wi‑Fi and do not require Thread accessories.
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Both generations can provide Apple Home automations, guest mode, Thread support where equipped, and HomeKit Secure Video processing. The 4th-generation Apple TV adds Apple Intelligence-generated descriptions of camera activity and summarized notifications. Those features depend on compatible cameras, an iCloud+ plan where required, supported languages and regional availability; they are not guaranteed for every HomeKit Secure Video setup.
Is the new Apple TV 4K worth upgrading?
Choose the 4th generation if you need new interaction features
- You want to talk to Siri from across the room without picking up a remote.
- You regularly misplace the remote and would use Find My or Precision Finding.
- Your network is ready for Wi‑Fi 7, or you want Bluetooth 6 and 128GB as standard.
- You use services that provide AV1 streams and want hardware decoding for them.
- You plan to build a four-speaker HomePod (2nd generation) or HomePod mini 2 theater system.
- You want the A19’s additional CPU and GPU headroom for future tvOS features and games.
Keep or buy the 3rd generation when the basics are enough
- Your priority is dependable 4K HDR streaming rather than hands-free search.
- You already own the 2022 model and are satisfied with remote-based Siri.
- You can obtain a 2022 unit at a meaningful discount, especially the 128GB A2843 for wired Ethernet and Thread.
- Your television, router and audio system cannot take advantage of the newer networking or four-speaker features.
Costs and setup requirements to account for
The 4th-generation Apple TV 4K has a $299 U.S. launch price and includes 128GB storage. Apple’s announced store availability date is November 13, 2026. Budget separately for an HDMI cable, because one is required to connect the box to a television.
Rank #4
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
The four-speaker theater mode requires four matching HomePod (2nd generation) or HomePod mini 2 speakers, sold separately. Siri AI setup also requires an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, and some features may not be available in your language or region at launch.
Bottom-line buying decision
The 2026 Apple TV 4K is the better long-term buy if hands-free Siri AI, a findable remote, Wi‑Fi 7, AV1 decoding or four-speaker HomePod audio matters to you. The 2022 Apple TV 4K remains a sensible value for 4K HDR streaming and current tvOS support, particularly when the 128GB Ethernet model is heavily discounted. Its capabilities—not its age alone—should determine whether you replace it.
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