The new tech
Apple just dropped the fourth-gen Apple TV 4K at their Welcome Home event, and it’s basically an AI-powered smart home hub in disguise. The star of the show is the A19 chip—the same one from the iPhone 17—which finally brings Siri AI to your TV. You can talk to it via the remote or new far-field microphones built into the box.
Real talk: Siri AI on this device isn't the talkative type. It won't chat back; instead, it pops up answers or recommendations in text bubbles on your screen. It also gets 'personal context' integration, meaning you can ask it to play a show based on a text you received on your iPhone.
The upgrades
Beyond the AI, Apple is finally fixing the biggest streaming struggle: losing your remote. The Siri Remote now supports Find My, so you can track it with your iPhone using Bluetooth channel sounding or have it play a sound. The device also supports a new surround-sound setup, letting you link up to four HomePods (second-gen or Mini 2) for a cinematic vibe. Plus, you’re getting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support.
The catch
Lowkey, the price tag is a major L. It’s launching at $299, which is more than double the debut price of the last model. You can preorder starting today, October 13th, and it hits shelves on November 13th. It will launch in eight countries including the US, UK, and Canada, with English-only support to start.
Why it matters
Apple is clearly trying to corner the smart home market with this, the new HomeView display, and the HomePod Mini 2. While the AI features are cool, $299 for a streaming box is a big ask—you’re paying for that A19 chip and the ecosystem integration rather than just better Netflix streaming.
