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Apple TV 4K 4th-Gen: What’s New and Whether It Justifies the $299 Tag
By Drooid · · How we work
New Model Overview
The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K arrives as a refresh of the 2021-era device that has been on the market for several years. Apple markets the update as a “flagship” streaming box that adds a faster processor, enhanced graphics, Wi-Fi 7, and built-in voice control. The unit retains the same 128 GB of storage as its predecessor and is slated for release in November, according to the CNET review.
Hardware and Performance Upgrades
Apple claims the new A19 chip delivers roughly 50 % faster CPU performance than the prior A15 chip and offers twice the graphics capability, a benefit the reviewer notes could improve gaming experiences streamed via services such as Steam Link. The addition of Wi-Fi 7 is presented as a potential boost in network throughput when paired with a compatible router, though no specific speed figures are provided.
Voice and Remote Enhancements
A notable change is the inclusion of three far-field microphones on the TV box itself, allowing users to issue Siri commands without a separate speaker. Apple also upgraded the Siri Remote with a “Find My” function that uses Precision Finding, mirroring a feature previously limited to Roku’s remote. The remote’s outward design remains unchanged, and the reviewer was unable to compare it side-by-side with the earlier model.
Pricing and Market Position
The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K carries a $299 price point, a substantial increase from the $129 entry-level model that Apple offered a few months after the third-generation launch. The 128 GB configuration is $100 more expensive than its earlier version, while the 64 GB version rose $70. By comparison, many competing streaming devices sell for around $30, positioning Apple’s offering at the high end of the market.
Buyer Considerations
According to the CNET analysis, the new hardware may appeal to home-cinema enthusiasts and gamers who value the promised performance and integrated Siri features. For users whose primary goal is basic streaming, the reviewer suggests the price premium is hard to justify given the availability of far cheaper alternatives. The final verdict will depend on hands-on testing after the November release.