Apple has launched an updated version of the Apple TV 4K media player. The new model features a faster processor, improved HDR support and better connectivity.
The new Apple TV 4K is equipped with the A15 Bionic SoC. Apple does not mention core counts or clock speeds, which makes it difficult to ascertain whether it is identical to that of the iPhone 14 models or a scaled down version. The company claims to have a 50% faster CPU and 30% faster GPU performance than the A12 Bionic on the previous generation model.
The new model adds support for the HDR10 + standard along with existing Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG formats. While HDR10 + is mostly similar to Dolby Vision in specs, it is far less popular, with the only major service offering HDR10 + content being Amazon Prime Video.
It is possible, however, that Apple plans to start offering its content library in HDR10 + alongside other formats. This may be due to the fact that several TV manufacturers, most notably Samsung, do not support Dolby Vision and instead support HDR10 +. Samsung is particularly noteworthy as it is not only the largest TV manufacturer today but also the inventor of the HDR10 + standard and is therefore unlikely to support the competing Dolby Vision standard any time soon.
The new Apple TV 4K will be available in two variants. The 64GB variant includes Wi-Fi 6 connectivity but the new 128GB variant also adds Gigabit Ethernet, along with support for the Thread mesh network protocol for controlling compatible smart home devices.
The Apple TV 4K will be available on Friday 4th November. The 64GB model is priced at $ 129 and the 128GB model with Ethernet for $ 149. The older HD model has been discontinued.
Start a new Thread