Apple TV+ is experiencing a significant year, but the Apple TV 4K streaming box is still looking forward to its first update since 2022—and that enhancement is on the way. Here are four attributes to anticipate when the new Apple TV 4K makes its debut later this year.
## #1: A17 Pro or A18 chip upgrade
The existing Apple TV 4K version was introduced in late 2022 and featured what was at the time a quite advanced chip: the A15 Bionic. However, Apple’s silicon endeavors continue reaching new peaks, and resource-intensive software like Apple Intelligence and the latest games necessitate a superior chip. The A17 Pro or A18 chips stand as the most probable contenders for the new Apple TV 4K. Either selection is capable of supporting AI functionalities, along with giving Apple’s streaming device a substantial gaming enhancement.
## #2: Apple Intelligence support
This should come as no revelation, considering Apple has been incrementally incorporating AI into its entire range of products. Although Apple Intelligence initially only encompassed iPhones, iPads, and Macs, Vision Pro acquired it this spring, and watchOS 26 will extend it to the Apple Watch. Anticipate the integration of AI features in the new Apple TV 4K as well.
What can AI bring to the TV viewing experience? Amazon recently showcased its AI-driven Alexa+ assistant on Fire TV, featuring examples including:
– Receiving customized TV suggestions based on your current mood
– Navigating to various scenes with just a brief description
– Obtaining information on music retrospectively from any moment in a show or movie
Siri’s significant AI enhancements are reportedly set to debut this fall in iOS 26, providing ample time for the newly improved assistant to deliver greater benefits on the Apple TV 4K too.
## #3: Apple’s inaugural Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip
Apple generated considerable excitement with its new C1 modem in the iPhone 16e. The C1 took years to develop and offers multiple advantages over Qualcomm’s modems. However, Apple has another lengthy connectivity initiative almost ready for launch: its proprietary Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip. This new chip will be part of the updated Apple TV 4K. Mark Gurman states it will ultimately result in several enhancements:
– “Apple’s objective is to cultivate an end-to-end wireless solution that is closely interwoven with its other components and more energy-efficient.”
– “With a custom wireless chip in Apple’s smart home offerings, the products will collaborate more effectively and potentially synchronize data with greater speed.”
Similar to the C1, Apple likely has numerous benefits planned for its proprietary chips that will take a full reveal to fully understand.
## #4: Wildcard: Built-in camera
This modification appears somewhat less assured, yet last spring when discussing Apple’s smart home ambitions, Mark Gurman noted that the company was contemplating the addition of a camera to its upcoming Apple TV 4K. He writes:
> “It has discussed…offering a revamped Apple TV set-top box with a built-in camera for FaceTime video conferencing and gesture-based controls. And the technology will all function seamlessly with both the iPhone and Vision Pro.”
In this AI-centric era, speculations have suggested that various new Apple products will soon feature cameras—including AirPods and smart glasses. Incorporating a camera into the Apple TV 4K not only makes sense for potential AI advantages but also for video calls and gesture-based controls. FaceTime is already available as a feature of tvOS, and a built-in camera for the Apple TV 4K would present a far more seamless solution.
## New Apple TV 4K features: wrap-up
The anticipated features listed above represent just a portion of what Apple may offer with its new Apple TV 4K. Given that the device typically sees several years between updates, Apple usually incorporates a wealth of new features into each hardware enhancement.
What functionalities do you wish to see included in a new Apple TV 4K? Share your thoughts in the comments.
