The current Apple TV 4K is almost a year and a half old, which in tech years is practically ancient. Naturally, you’re probably wondering when the next iteration will drop. So, let’s dive into the juicy rumors about the next-gen Apple TV, including new features and the tantalizing prospect of a lower price.
The Apple TV 4K So Far
The latest Apple TV 4K, launched in October 2022, brought some nifty upgrades over its predecessor. It flaunts a faster A15 Bionic chip, a storage option of 128GB, a slimmer design, HDR10+ support, and even a USB-C port on the Siri Remote. Plus, it came in at a lower starting price of $129, down from $179. Talk about a bargain!
Rumors on the New Apple TV
Back in January 2023, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinted that a new Apple TV could hit the shelves in the first half of 2024. With June just around the corner and the WWDC keynote looming on the 10th, the clock is ticking. Will we see a shiny new Apple TV unveiled? Fingers crossed!
Here’s a fun fact: The last five Apple TV models were released as follows:
- Third-generation Apple TV 4K: October 2022
- Second-generation Apple TV 4K: April 2021
- First-generation Apple TV 4K: September 2017
- Apple TV HD: September 2015
- Third-generation Apple TV: March 2012
What to Expect from the Next Apple TV
According to the rumor mill, the next Apple TV will pack a punch with a processor even beefier than the current A15 Bionic chip. And the price? Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo is stirring the pot with whispers of a sub-$100 starting price. That’s right, less than a Benjamin!
Throwback to 2010 and 2012 when Apple TV’s second and third generations launched at $99. Eventually, Apple slashed the third-gen model’s price to $69, setting a precedent for budget-friendly streaming boxes. This move could be Apple’s strategy to compete with affordable streaming devices from Google, Amazon, and Roku.
New Features on the Horizon?
Design-wise, don’t expect any drastic changes. However, rumor has it that Apple is considering adding a built-in camera to future models. This would be a game-changer, especially since tvOS 17 introduced a FaceTime app for the Apple TV. Imagine video calls directly from your TV without needing to prop up your iPhone or iPad. That’s right, you could be chatting on the big screen in no time!
The Waiting Game
If the WWDC keynote passes without any mention of a new Apple TV, we might be left in the dark about the release timeline. But let’s keep our hopes high and our ears perked for any announcements.
In the meantime, keep your current Apple TV cozy, because the next-gen model could soon revolutionize your streaming experience with blazing speed, exciting new features, and a wallet-friendly price.