Upcoming Apple TV 4K (fourth generation): Anticipated Features of Apple's Next Video Streaming Device

Upcoming Apple TV 4K (fourth generation): Anticipated Features of Apple's Next Video Streaming Device

The tech world is abuzz with rumours about the upcoming fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, with several significant updates on the horizon. Here's a round-up of what we can expect from the new device.

One of the most notable features could be the addition of a built-in camera, allowing for FaceTime video calls and potentially gesture controls similar to Xbox Kinect. This would simplify using FaceTime without needing an iPhone as a camera.

Performance-wise, the device is rumoured to come with a more powerful A18 or A17 Pro chip, which would enhance the device's capabilities. The current Apple TV 4K's chip, the A15 Bionic, is starting to feel dated.

Reports suggest that the design might remain similar to the current model, focusing more on internal improvements rather than external changes. The third-generation Apple TV 4K is one of the best streaming devices around, and it seems Apple is keen to build on its success.

The price is speculated to be under $100, making it more accessible compared to previous models. Ming-Chi Kuo believes that a lower price for the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K would be the "sweet spot" for a streamer.

Wireless connectivity improvements are also expected. Apple is expected to integrate its first in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modem into the device, which could improve connectivity stability and range. Additionally, the new Apple TV 4K may include better Wi-Fi and a newer Bluetooth version for enhanced connectivity.

The operating system update, tvOS 26, will introduce a new "Liquid Glass" interface, poster art, display profiles, and more personalised FaceTime features. The latest Bluetooth version, 6.0, is not expected to be featured in the next Apple TV 4K.

The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K is expected to support hardware-accelerated ray tracing, enabling it to run console-quality games. A new, custom chip with support for Wi-Fi 6E is said to feature in the next Apple TV 4K. However, a router compatible with Wi-Fi 6E will be required to notice the difference in the Apple TV 4K's performance with the new feature.

It's worth noting that the iPhone 15 Pro models and recent iPads and Mac computers already have Wi-Fi 6E support.

Apple may keep the current model on sale and discount it as a lower-specced version if it can't launch the new model at a lower price. The current Apple TV 4K's price drop isn't unlikely, as it launched at a lower price than its predecessor.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggests that the built-in camera could be used for gesture controls, adding an exciting new dimension to the user experience. The picture and sound quality of the third-generation Apple TV 4K are impressive, and it's expected that the fourth-generation model will build on this foundation.

The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K is expected to launch towards the end of 2025. With these exciting features on the horizon, Apple fans have much to look forward to.

1. The tech world is abuzz with news about the addition of a built-in camera to the upcoming fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, which could enable FaceTime video calls and possibly gesture controls similar to Xbox Kinect.
2. Reports suggest that the 4K device might come with a more powerful A18 or A17 Pro chip, enhancing its overall performance.
3. Wireless connectivity improvements are expected, with the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K expected to integrate Apple's first in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modem, potentially boosting connectivity stability and range.
4. The new Apple TV 4K is rumored to support hardware-accelerated ray tracing, enabling it to run console-quality games, but a router compatible with Wi-Fi 6E will be required to fully utilize this feature.
5. The latest Bluetooth version, 6.0, is not expected to be included in the next Apple TV 4K, but the operating system update, tvOS 26, will introduce a new "Liquid Glass" interface, poster art, display profiles, and more personalized FaceTime features.
6. The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K is expected to launch towards the end of 2025, potentially making it a highly anticipated gadget release in the world of technology and hi-fi gadgets.

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