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Apple last refreshed its Apple TV 4K in October 2022, introducing a smaller design, USB-C on the Siri Remote, and an A15 Bionic chip upgrade. While the current model remains capable, rumors suggest a new Apple TV is on the horizon, bringing several key improvements.

What to Expect from the Next Apple TV 4K

Bloomberg reports that Apple is developing a new Apple TV model featuring a custom-designed networking chip, replacing the current Broadcom solution. This in-house chip will support Wi-Fi 6E, enhancing connectivity and streaming performance.

While a faster processor is expected, specific details are scarce. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman anticipates the release in 2025, aligning with the rollout of this new networking chip across other Apple home devices, including a refreshed HomePod mini.

Why a New Apple TV?

Despite the A15 Bionic's power, several factors motivate Apple to refresh the Apple TV:

• Cost Reduction: Apple lowered the entry price of the Apple TV 4K to $129 in 2022. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts the next model will be even more affordable, potentially dipping below $100. This price drop would make the Apple TV more accessible to a wider audience.

• Enhanced Apple Intelligence: The new Apple TV could leverage Apple's latest A-series chip (likely the A18), potentially enabling features like offloading Siri processing to paired HomePods, enhancing their capabilities without requiring hardware upgrades.

• Gaming Potential: Apple has been pushing gaming on its other platforms, including iPhone, iPad, and Mac. A more powerful Apple TV could support higher-end games, potentially even with features like ray tracing, though Apple's gaming strategy for the platform remains unclear.

A Whole New Apple TV?

While unlikely given Apple's focus on Apple Vision Pro for immersive home entertainment experiences, Gurman mentions Apple is exploring the possibility of developing its own branded television set. This echoes earlier rumors from over a decade ago.

Conclusion

The next Apple TV 4K is anticipated to bring significant improvements, including a custom networking chip with Wi-Fi 6E support, a potential price drop, and enhanced integration with Apple's ecosystem. While the possibility of an Apple-branded television remains speculative, it highlights the company's continued interest in expanding its presence in the home entertainment market.