Possible upgrade in sight for Apple TV 4K, promising enhanced performance and reduced cost
The tech world is abuzz with rumors about the upcoming refresh of the Apple TV 4K and the potential return of the HomePod. According to various reports and rumors, the new devices are expected to launch in late 2025, with a probable release window between September and December.
If the rumors hold true, the new Apple TV 4K will boast a new A-series chip, possibly the A17 Pro, A18, or A19, currently used in recent and upcoming iPhones. This upgrade is expected to bring improved gaming performance, including hardware-accelerated ray tracing for console-level gaming capabilities.
In terms of connectivity, the new Apple TV 4K is rumored to feature Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, along with Apple's proprietary wireless chip, "Proxima," designed to enhance smart home device integration. The device is expected to support Thread and Matter protocols, improving its compatibility with various smart home devices.
Regarding the design, the new Apple TV 4K is likely to retain the slim black plastic form factor of the current model. However, it is speculated that the device will incorporate Apple's first proprietary Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chip design for better connectivity.
As for the price, strong rumors suggest the new Apple TV 4K may launch at a significantly reduced price, around $99. This would be a notable decrease from the current $130–$150 pricing, making it more competitive with devices like the Roku Ultra. However, some skepticism exists about whether the price will truly drop that low due to tariffs and existing cost factors.
The upcoming Apple TV model might also include the long-rumored Apple HomePod with a screen, although no specific details about this have been confirmed yet. It's also worth noting that there's no hint of any price reductions for those in the UK or Australia.
Apple is likely to replace the current Apple TV 4K with an updated model before the end of 2025. The company has not confirmed any official details yet, but the timeline aligns with its traditional product announcement schedule.
Sources for this article include Pocket-lint, MacRumors, Tom's Guide, and various Apple-focused YouTube channels. Past reports from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that the refreshed model could retail for under $100.
[1] https://www.pocket-lint.com/apple/news/157888-apple-tv-4k-2025-release-date-price-specs-rumours-and-leaks [2] https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/apple-tv-4k-2025/ [3] https://www.tomsguide.com/news/apple-tv-4k-2025-release-date-price-and-features [4] [5] (Apple-focused YouTube channels)
- The tech world is eagerly awaiting the anticipated refresh of the Apple TV 4K and the potential reintroduction of the HomePod, with expectations for a launch in late 2025.
- If the whispers prove correct, the revamped Apple TV 4K will likely feature a new A-series chip, such as the A17 Pro, A18, or A19, known for enhancing gaming performance via hardware-accelerated ray tracing.
- The rumored device will boast advanced connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and Apple’s proprietary wireless chip, “Proxima,” for improved smart home device integration.
- A reduced price of around $99 could make the latest Apple TV 4K more appealing in the competitive streaming market, although tariffs and cost concerns might complicate this.
- The anticipated Apple TV model could also possibly include the long-rumored Apple HomePod with a screen, but no solid information has been disclosed about this.
- sources such as Pocket-lint, MacRumors, Tom's Guide, and various Apple-focused YouTube channels predict that Apple might replace the current Apple TV 4K with an updated model before the end of 2025.
