Apple TV 4K (4th gen) launched: A19 chip, 4-speaker support, and trackable remote

Apple has introduced a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K with a faster processor, hands-free voice controls, and an updated remote.

The new Apple TV 4K and remote

Most powerful Apple TV yet

According to Apple, the device includes three far-field microphones that allow voice control without the remote. 

It also integrates a new version of Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, which can answer questions about what is playing, such as cast details, age ratings, and awards. Responses appear in a small on-screen overlay and do not interrupt playback.

Because the device listens continuously for wake words, Apple said microphone data is processed in a Secure Enclave, which is isolated from the main tvOS system. 

The ports

Queries that require cloud processing are routed through Apple's Private Cloud Compute, which the company says does not store user data.

The Apple TV 4K is powered by the new A19 chip, which Apple says delivers a 50% increase in CPU performance and double the GPU performance of the previous generation. The most notable addition for streaming is a dedicated AV1 decoder. The AV1 codec supports high-quality video at lower bitrates, helping preserve image quality on slower internet connections.

The Siri Remote keeps its aluminum design but now has a built-in speaker and an ultra-wideband chip. These additions bring it into the Find My network, allowing users to locate it with Precision Finding on an iPhone or trigger a sound if it is lost, for example, between sofa cushions.

Quad speaker support

For audio, the device supports four-speaker surround sound when paired with matching sets of the second-generation HomePod or the newly announced HomePod Mini 2.

Apple TV 4K key specs and features:

• Powered by 3nm Apple A19 chip
• AV1 decoder
• Hands-free Siri
• Privacy protections
• Updated Siri Remote with built-in speaker, ultra-wideband chip for Find My & Precision Finding
• Supports 4-speaker setup (HomePod 2nd gen or HomePod Mini 2)

US price with direct-to-PHP conversion (no taxes and duties yet):

Apple TV 4K (4th gen) - USD 299

It is currently available for pre-order in the US. No word yet for other markets.

What do you guys think?

Source: Apple