Short answer: Apple did not announce a new Apple TV 4K in its official 2025 announcements. As of August 16, 2026, the current box is still the third-generation Apple TV 4K, introduced in 2022. Apple’s major 2025 change was tvOS 26, a software update. The hardware costs $129 for 64GB Wi‑Fi or $149 for 128GB Wi‑Fi plus Ethernet in the United States.
What does “Apple TV” mean?
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Apple TV 4K | The physical streaming box priced at $129 or $149 in the U.S. |
| Apple TV app | Apple’s app for Apple Originals, rentals, purchases, channels and supported services. |
| Apple TV subscription | Apple’s ad-free streaming service, formerly called Apple TV+. |
| tvOS | The operating system used by Apple TV hardware. |
Headlines often use “Apple TV” for all four, so a software redesign or subscription announcement can be mistaken for a new streaming box.
Was there a new Apple TV 4K in 2025?
No officially confirmed 2025 hardware launch appears in Apple’s announcements reviewed. Apple’s model-identification page still identifies the third-generation Apple TV 4K as the latest generation. That model was announced on October 18, 2022, with availability beginning November 4, 2022, according to Apple’s launch announcement.
Apple’s June 9, 2025 announcement was about tvOS 26, not a replacement box. Owners of compatible existing hardware could therefore receive a new interface and features without buying another Apple TV.
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- 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.
Current Apple TV 4K price and model differences
Apple’s U.S. store lists these prices before sales tax. An HDMI cable is sold separately.
| Model | U.S. price | Storage | Networking | Thread |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV 4K Wi‑Fi | $129 | 64GB | Wi‑Fi 6 | Not listed |
| Apple TV 4K Wi‑Fi + Ethernet | $149 | 128GB | Wi‑Fi 6 and Gigabit Ethernet | Supported |
See Apple’s 64GB purchase page, 128GB purchase page and technical specifications. The extra $20 is most useful when you can run Ethernet to the television, install more games and apps, or use the box as a smart-home hub that benefits from Thread.
Apple TV 4K features
Performance and apps
The box uses Apple’s A15 Bionic chip. It runs tvOS apps, supports the App Store and Apple Arcade, and works with AirPlay and FaceTime features. Apple’s published specifications do not establish support for every Apple Intelligence feature, so an A15 Apple TV should not be marketed as an Apple Intelligence device.
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.
Picture and sound
- 4K output
- Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG
- Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital formats
- HDMI 2.1 and HDMI Quick Media Switching
- Selected 21:9 cinematic aspect-ratio support on compatible displays and projectors
A 4K television is required for 4K output. HDR results also depend on the television, HDMI equipment, content and app support; a TV can support Dolby Vision without delivering Dolby Atmos through its sound system.
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- Wi‑Fi 6 with 2×2 MIMO
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Gigabit Ethernet on the 128GB model
- Thread networking on the Wi‑Fi + Ethernet model
- Built-in power supply
Apple says Apple TV 4K can act as a smart-home hub. Thread does not guarantee compatibility with every accessory: check the accessory maker’s supported standards and requirements.
Siri Remote and what is in the box
The third-generation Siri Remote has USB‑C charging, a touch-enabled clickpad, Siri, power and mute controls, and infrared and HDMI-CEC control for compatible televisions and receivers. Apple also describes locating the remote through an iPhone. The HDMI cable is not included.
Rank #3
- 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
What tvOS 26 changed in 2025
Apple’s 2025 Apple TV announcement centered on software:
- A Liquid Glass visual redesign.
- A redesigned Apple TV app with cinematic poster art.
- Easier profile switching.
- Streamlined sign-in to supported apps, including new developer APIs connecting logins with an Apple Account.
- Apple Music Sing improvements using an iPhone.
- A Movie Night scene in Control Center.
Feature availability can vary by Apple TV model, language, region and app support. These updates are not evidence that Apple released new 2025 hardware.
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The Apple TV subscription is separate from the streaming box. Apple’s U.S. press information lists it at $12.99 per month, with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers, subject to eligibility and regional terms. It is available through the Apple TV app and web on Apple devices, selected smart TVs, streaming devices, game consoles and other supported screens. See Apple TV Press and the service page.
Rank #4
- DESIGNED IN THE USA: ReliaMount – Quick and easy Apple TV installation.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX: Premium Apple TV mount and mounting hardware. (Apple TV and remote are not included.)
- MOUNT COMPATIBILITY – This mount is compatible with all Apple TV generations and models (including Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi and Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi + Ethernet).
- MOUNT ATTACHES APPLE TV TO THE BACK OF YOUR TELEVISION using a special adhesive that is formulated for the elevated temperatures of televisions. Perfect for televisions that are mounted on a wall. (Screws are also included for optional wall mounting.)
- HOLE-FREE INSTALLATION – Attaching Apple TV to the back of your television eliminates the need to drill holes in your wall. Installation is simple and does not require tools.
Buying Apple TV 4K does not permanently unlock the subscription catalog. The box can also run free apps, other paid services, rentals and purchases. Apple may offer a promotional subscription with eligible hardware purchases, but redemption rules and eligibility can change; consult the promotional terms.
Rumors about a next Apple TV 4K
Rumor coverage, including a 9to5Mac report, has discussed a possible successor and newer chips such as A17 Pro. Those are unconfirmed possibilities, not Apple specifications. There is no confirmed release date, price, AI capability or Wi‑Fi upgrade to rely on. Apple has not established that it canceled or delayed a 2025 model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you buy now or wait?
| Your situation | Practical choice |
|---|---|
| You need a streaming box now | Buy the current Apple TV 4K, preferably on sale. |
| You already own a working Apple TV 4K | Wait unless you need a specific future feature. |
| You are interested in rumored A17 Pro or AI upgrades | Wait only if an unknown date and price are acceptable. |
| You mainly want Apple’s streaming catalog | Use the Apple TV app on an existing supported device; the box is optional. |
| You need Ethernet or Thread | Choose the $149 128GB model. |
| You only need basic HD streaming | Consider a cheaper streaming device. |
Who should buy Apple TV 4K?
- Apple households using iPhone, iPad, AirPods, HomePod or Apple services.
- Viewers who want a fast interface with Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos support.
- Homes that need wired Ethernet or an Apple smart-home hub.
- Users who value AirPlay, Apple Arcade, apps and FaceTime on a television.
It is less compelling if your recent smart TV already has a responsive Apple TV app, you watch only one or two services, or you want the lowest-cost streaming stick. It is also not the ideal choice for buyers seeking extensive cloud gaming or a very large game library.
Best Value
- Dolby Atmos for immersive, room-filling sound - 4K High Frame Rate HDR with Dolby Vision for fluid, crisp video
- A12 Bionic chip gives a big boost to audio, video, and graphics, for even better game and app experiences than ever before
- The new Siri Remote with touch-enabled clickpad - Use AirPlay to share photos, videos, and more from your device on your TV
- Apple Original shows and movies from Apple TV+ - Watch the latest hits from Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and more
- More ways to enjoy your TV with Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, and Apple Music - Private listening using up to two sets of AirPods
Alternatives to consider
A capable built-in smart-TV platform may be enough if you do not need Apple’s interface or ecosystem integration. Lower-cost Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Google TV devices can cover basic streaming, while an NVIDIA SHIELD TV or game console may suit buyers prioritizing gaming or particular media-server features. Availability and app functionality vary by platform and region, so compare the services you actually use rather than assuming every app behaves identically everywhere.
The Bottom Line
Verdict: There was no confirmed new Apple TV 4K release in 2025. Buy the current model for Apple integration, premium format support, gaming and smart-home features; choose the $149 version when Ethernet, Thread or extra storage matters. Wait only if you are comfortable with the uncertainty surrounding an unannounced successor.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
