The third-generation Apple TV 4K marked its way into the market by the end of 2022, fueling speculation on the next version ever since. Generally, Apple tends to follow a two-year release cycle for its products. This means a long wait for the expected successor; however, the rumor mill might have other thoughts about when the new version is likely to arrive.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinted about a new Apple TV as soon as 2025, indicating along with the launch of the second-generation HomePod Mini. Investing in this package could do a good number in improving your audio experience while bringing a two-prong kill. Home viewers with a penchant for better audio could cash in on this owing to the probable two-for-one offer. As someone still using the first-generation Apple TV 4K, I can confidently say it feels like the perfect moment for an upgrade. Frequent updates have rendered my device almost obsolete, and I’ve been holding out for the fourth-generation model. It seems my patience is about to pay off.
A Timely Arrival for the New Apple TV 4K
The wait seems worthwhile.
Initially, I bought the Apple TV 4K to experience Dolby Atmos on Apple Music. A used first-generation model sufficed at the time, but I couldn’t have foreseen how it would transform my experience. The Apple TV 4K allowed me to ditch my smart TV’s sluggish user interface in favor of Apple’s fast and responsive device.
While it has served me well, it’s clear that my device is aging and desperately needs an upgrade. Features like advanced aspect ratios and even fun options like Snoopy-themed backgrounds are locked behind newer models, leaving the first-generation device feeling increasingly outdated.
If Bloomberg’s report is accurate, the future looks bright. One of the most exciting rumors is about a new processor that will power the upcoming hardware.
A New Processor is on the Horizon
More Power, More Possibilities
The standout feature of the next-generation Apple TV 4K could be the rumored Proxima chip. While details are sparse, Bloomberg’s report suggests it has been in development for years and might eventually make its way to future iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
Given that Apple TV 4K already supports gaming through Apple Arcade, a powerful chip makes perfect sense. While the fourth-generation model won’t rival Xbox Series X or PS5 for home console supremacy, an upgraded processor will significantly enhance its capabilities.
Beyond gaming, a robust processor will also make an already fast device even quicker. From personal experience, transitioning from a smart TV UI to the first-generation Apple TV 4K felt like a massive leap forward. I anticipate a similar wow factor when moving from my current model to the fourth generation, and I’m eager to see just how far the technology has progressed.
A More Competitive Market
Apple Needs to Step Up
The Apple TV 4K is my favorite streaming device, but that doesn’t mean it’s the most cost-effective option. Roku, Google, and Amazon offer strong competition, and depending on your needs, Apple might not always be the best choice.
In my view, Apple’s reluctance to release a streaming stick is a missed opportunity. Amazon Fire Sticks, often priced under $30 during sales, are a far more affordable way to stream content without dealing with clunky TV interfaces.
Most importantly, Google has recently released a new streamer that has turned out to be a fierce competitor as it is being sold for a significantly lower amount compared to others. The Apple TV 4K for instance is priced at $130 or $150 based on the storage size, while the Google Streamer costs only $100. While the price difference may not seem huge, it’s enough to draw budget-conscious buyers toward Google—especially those not already invested in the Apple ecosystem.
A more competitive price for the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K would make it appealing to a broader audience.
The fourth-gen Apple TV 4K could bring exciting improvements, but to remain competitive, Apple needs to address pricing and make the device accessible to a wider range of users. With upgraded hardware, enhanced features, and a little adjustment in its pricing strategy, Apple could solidify its place in the increasingly competitive streaming market.
