The expected late-2025 Apple TV 4K refresh did not arrive. As of October 8, 2026, Apple’s official materials still describe the existing Apple TV 4K, while MacRumors reported on October 6 that a new model looked likely to launch in October 2026. That timing—and every rumored feature—remains unconfirmed by Apple.
Did the new Apple TV 4K arrive in late 2025?
No. The late-2025 expectation passed without a new model announcement. MacRumors reported on December 22, 2025 that Apple had not announced a refresh by then, despite speculation about a release later in the year. Its report discussed a possible connection to upcoming Siri updates, but that was speculation, not an Apple commitment. MacRumors, December 22, 2025.
The latest timing in the cited reporting is still a forecast: MacRumors said on October 6, 2026 that an October launch looked likely. Apple’s cited product and technical pages do not announce a fourth generation or confirm a release date. MacRumors Apple TV guide, October 6, 2026.
What is confirmed about the current Apple TV 4K?
Apple announced the third-generation Apple TV 4K on October 18, 2022. Apple’s current technical specifications page continues to list an Apple TV 4K powered by A15 Bionic. Apple’s published specifications and announcement are the reliable baseline for a purchase today; they do not establish what a successor will include. Apple’s October 18, 2022 announcement and Apple TV 4K technical specifications.
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#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
Configurations and connectivity
| 2022 configuration | Storage | Network features announced by Apple |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | 64GB | Wi-Fi |
| Wi-Fi + Ethernet | 128GB | Gigabit Ethernet and Thread |
These are the configurations Apple announced in 2022, not a statement of current retail price or inventory. Check the seller’s listing for today’s availability and exact bundle.
Picture, sound, and setup
Apple lists support for HD and UHD televisions connected over HDMI. Its current specifications include HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG video formats, with HEVC up to 2160p at 60 frames per second, as well as Dolby Atmos audio. An HDMI cable is sold separately, so account for that if you do not already have one. Apple TV 4K technical specifications.
Rank #2
- 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
Apple’s 2022 announcement also listed Dolby Vision and Dolby Digital 7.1 and 5.1 audio support. Apple said the USB-C Siri Remote included with that generation could also be purchased separately and was compatible with all generations of Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD. Apple’s October 18, 2022 announcement.
What might be new in a fourth-generation model?
Nothing about a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K is confirmed in the cited Apple materials. Rumor reports have changed over time, so treat each prospective chip, feature, and launch window as provisional rather than as a product specification.
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.
Earlier 2026 expectations
MacRumors wrote on July 8, 2026 that an update was planned for 2026, while also speculating that Apple might wait for smarter Siri features. That report named A17 Pro as a rumored chip and discussed Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread, a potentially unchanged design, and a possible effect on price. These are reported possibilities, not commitments. MacRumors, July 8, 2026.
October 2026 expectations
In its October 6 guide, MacRumors described A19 or A19 Pro and at least 8GB of RAM as likely, alongside Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread, Apple Intelligence-related capabilities, and a possible updated Siri Remote. It also said an October 2026 launch looked likely. Apple has not confirmed these details in the cited official sources, and no specific launch date, price, or final configuration is established. MacRumors Apple TV guide, October 6, 2026.
Rank #4
- 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.
Should you buy an Apple TV 4K now or wait?
The practical choice is between a documented current model and a successor whose timing and specifications remain uncertain. If you need a streaming box now, base the decision on the current Apple TV 4K’s confirmed features and your setup. If you can comfortably wait, do so because you want to see what Apple actually announces—not because a rumored launch window guarantees a particular model or feature set.
- Choose based on your network: The announced 2022 range included a Wi-Fi model and a Wi-Fi + Ethernet model with Gigabit Ethernet and Thread. Consider whether a wired connection suits your home setup.
- Choose based on storage: Apple announced 64GB for the Wi-Fi configuration and 128GB for Wi-Fi + Ethernet. Confirm which configuration a retailer is offering.
- Check your display and cable: Apple specifies an HDMI-connected HD or UHD television; the HDMI cable is sold separately.
- Keep rumors separate from requirements: Do not pay extra or delay a purchase based on an unconfirmed chip, Siri feature, wireless standard, design, price, or release date.
Apple’s 2022 announcement quoted Bob Borchers, the company’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, calling the device “the ultimate way for Apple users to enjoy their favorite entertainment on the biggest screen in the home.” That is Apple’s promotional description, not an independent performance assessment. The same announcement said the A15-equipped model delivered up to 50 percent faster CPU performance, up to 30 percent faster GPU performance, and nearly 30 percent less power use than the previous generation; those figures are Apple’s own claims, not independent benchmark results. Apple’s October 18, 2022 announcement.
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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
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.
