Apple Upgrades Apple TV 4K With A19 Chip and Wi-Fi 7

Apple has introduced its fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, replacing the 2022 model with upgraded processing power, wireless connectivity, storage, and smart home audio features. Announced on October 13, 2026, the new streaming device adds hands-free Siri interactions, improved remote tracking, and support for a four-speaker surround sound configuration using compatible HomePods. According to 9to5Mac, the new model runs on Apple's A19 chip, replacing the third-generation device's A15 Bionic processor.

Apple says the upgrade delivers up to 50 percent faster CPU performance and up to 2x faster GPU performance, improving navigation, responsiveness, and animations. The A19 also includes a dedicated AV1 decoder designed to support high-quality streaming more efficiently while consuming less bandwidth. The previous model, released in 2022, used the A15 Bionic chip, which debuted in 2021.

Apple has also made 128GB the standard internal storage capacity for the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K. The previous lineup offered 64GB and 128GB configurations, with the larger capacity available in a more expensive model.

Siri AI is another major addition, bringing expanded assistant capabilities to the new streaming box. According to Apple, the system supports personal context understanding, broader world knowledge, and additional actions across apps and the operating system. Apple also plans to bring Siri AI to second- and third-generation Apple TV 4K models, allowing existing owners to access the new assistant without purchasing the latest hardware. However, the fourth-generation device adds a three-microphone array with voice isolation, enabling users to activate Siri by saying "Siri" or "Hey Siri" without pressing a button on the remote.

The redesigned Siri Remote adds Find My support with Precision Finding to help users locate a misplaced controller. A built-in speaker can play a sound, while guided directions help users find the remote's location. According to 9to5Mac, Apple is also offering the upgraded Siri Remote separately for $59, and it remains compatible with older Apple TV 4K models. This allows existing customers to access the remote's tracking features without replacing their streaming device.

The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K introduces a surround sound feature that uses four HomePods to create a coordinated audio setup. Apple says the speakers work with the streaming device to identify their positions in a room and automatically calibrate audio timing and levels to suit the space. The configuration supports HomePod 2 and HomePod mini 2 speakers in matching pairs.

Users can combine a pair of HomePod 2 speakers at the front with two HomePod mini 2 units at the rear, or use four speakers of the same model. Connectivity also receives a substantial update. The new Apple TV 4K supports Wi-Fi 7 instead of Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6 instead of Bluetooth 5.0, and Thread connectivity, which had previously been limited to the 128GB version of the earlier model.

9to5Mac reported that Apple's N1 wireless chip is expected to account for these connectivity improvements, although Apple has not officially confirmed that explanation. Gigabit Ethernet is now standard across all configurations, unlike the previous generation, whose base 64GB model lacked the feature.