While it’s not known when Apple will release the 4th-generation Apple TV 4K, the rumor mill gives a good picture of what the device will bring. From a lower price to AI and beyond, this article tracks the latest news and rumors about the next Apple TV 4K.
When Could the Apple TV 4K 4th Gen Be Released?
The fourth-generation Apple TV release date is unknown. That’s partly because the rumor mill—in the form of uber-plugged-in Apple reporter Mark Gurman of Bloomberg—originally suggested the device would come out in the first half of 2024, but that time came and went without the product’s release.
However, Gurman has updated his prediction. It’s now likely that the next-gen Apple TV 4K will debut in the second half of 2025.
Here’s why the rumors are growing:
- Guman’s January 2025 newsletter suggests that the new Apple TV will arrive “toward the end of the year.”
- September and October are usually when Apple focuses on Apple TV releases.
Is Apple Even Considering the Release of Any Kind of Streaming Device?
Unlike the iPhone, which follows a consistent annual release schedule, Apple doesn’t stick to a predictable pattern when it comes to Apple TV launches. The third-generation Apple TV 4K debuted in late 2022, but the second-generation model arrived in early 2021. So, history is no guide here.
That said, it’s been a few years since Apple last refreshed its set-top box, and history suggests we’re due for an update. With Gurman’s recent report pointing to a potential release window and continued consumer interest in the device, the arrival of a new Apple TV 4K seems likely.
Our Thoughts on Potential Apple TV 4K 4th Gen Features
If the rumors are to be believed, the 4th-gen Apple TV 4K features will include:
- A faster processor
- A lower price
- More storage
- A streamlined design
- Apple Intelligence support
We’ve also heard some more out-there rumors that we think aren’t very likely, but they’re cool enough to consider.
Faster Processor
A faster processor is a key feature of each new Apple TV model, needed to support the latest streaming video and audio formats. A speedy chip will also be essential for AI features (more on that in a minute). We expect to see the Apple TV running an A17 Pro chip, just like the iPhone 15.
Lower Price
As noted above, a price in the $100 range is expected. For comparison, the current Apple TV 4K costs $129 for Wi-Fi only and $149 for Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity (and twice the storage).
More Storage
The 4th Gen. Apple TV 4K may offer storage options starting at 128GB, up from the current model’s introductory 64GB. Storage doesn’t matter a tremendous amount for a streaming device, but it’s handy for apps, photos, and other downloaded content.
Smaller and Lighter
Streaming boxes from other companies are getting smaller and smaller, while recent generations of the Apple TV have gotten a bit bigger and heavier than their predecessors. Because of that market pressure, the weight could also change for Apple’s 4th-generation model.
Apple Intelligence
While Apple hasn’t announced it yet, it’s hard to imagine this Apple TV without the Apple Intelligence AI platform. Exactly what features Apple Intelligence could deliver remains to be seen, but we expect enhancements to the streaming video and audio experience and the Apple TV’s smart-home capabilities.
Unlikely Rumors: Cameras, Gesture Controls
A few rumored features are unlikely, but they’re cool enough to mention.
First, there has been discussion of Apple building a robotics-enhanced video-calling screen. It’s not hard to imagine that that device could be similar to an Apple TV with built-in cameras and a screen.
If Apple adds a camera to the Apple TV box, another possibility is gesture recognition for controlling the box instead of (or in addition to) a remote control.
