Apple TV 4K 2026 vs. 2022: Key Differences, Features and Prices

Apple has introduced the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, replacing the 2022 model. The new streaming box adds an A19 chip, microphones for hands-free Siri and support for surround sound through four HomePod speakers.

The new model costs $299 with 128GB of storage. Compared with the predecessor’s final 128GB price, it is $50 more expensive while adding Ethernet and Thread support.

A19 chip and graphics

The A19 uses a newer architecture with a stronger GPU, Dynamic Caching, hardware-accelerated ray tracing, mesh shading and GPU Neural Accelerators. These upgrades may matter most for gaming, although their practical benefit will depend on the games available for tvOS and how developers use the hardware.

The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K also adds hardware AV1 decoding. Maximum video resolution and HDR support remain unchanged from the previous model.

HomePod and voice control

The four-speaker setup requires HomePod mini 2 or second-generation full-sized HomePod speakers. Users can pair four matching speakers or combine matching front and rear pairs; first-generation HomePod and the original HomePod mini are not supported in this configuration.

Built-in microphones allow users to address Siri directly through the box. Availability is regional, with support listed for Mandarin Chinese, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Hebrew, Norwegian and Swedish.

Siri AI is also expected to reach second-generation and later Apple TV 4K models in beta with tvOS 27.2. Apple says the features will include conversational entertainment searches, follow-up questions and personal context through a compatible paired device.

Updated Siri Remote

The revised remote keeps the familiar design but adds precise location guidance and an audible alert. Precision Finding uses Bluetooth Channel Sounding and requires an iPhone 17 or later, excluding iPhone 17e, or an iPhone Air or iPhone Duo running current software.

The remote is sold separately for $59 and works with the third-generation Apple TV 4K, every earlier Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD. For an existing owner, it costs $240 less than replacing the entire box.

Both generations retain the compact black enclosure. The new model adds microphone hardware and a centered front indicator; it weighs three grams more than the previous Ethernet model and nine grams more than the Wi-Fi-only version.

Who should upgrade

Most third-generation owners do not need to replace a working device for ordinary streaming through a television, soundbar or AV receiver. The clearest reasons to upgrade are a planned four-HomePod system, hands-free voice control, AV1 playback or the newer graphics architecture.

For a new purchase, the fourth-generation model is the stronger option when the price gap is modest or its exclusive features are needed. A heavily discounted third-generation model remains reasonable, particularly for buyers who want Ethernet and Thread without a four-speaker HomePod setup.