New Apple TV 4K presented

In addition to the new iMac and iPad Pro, Apple also presented the latest generation of the Apple TV 4K during its keynote. Besides a new chip in the form of the A12 Bionic, Apple also gives its entertainment hardware a completely new remote control.

Dolby Vision HDR and 60 frames per second

Apple has given the second generation of the Apple TV 4K some new features. The significantly more modern processor is supposed to provide more performance. If you look at the “family tree” of the popular set top box, this was also bitterly necessary. After all, Apple released the first generation of the Apple TV 4K in 2017. Apple now replaces the now outdated Apple A10X Fusion with the in-house A12 Bionic with a much more modern chip. However, the first benchmarks will cause some people to frown. The CPU performance is supposed to be stronger with the new chip. However, the graphics performance is sometimes even worse than that of the predecessor. This clearly shows that Apple now places great value on speed and higher frame rates and puts gaming in the background.

Above all, Apple is focusing on the new HDR capabilities of the Apple TV 4K. In the future, content should not only come in super-sharp 4K, but also score with great contrasts and color fidelity. In particular, Apple relies on the HDR standard Dolby Vision HDR. The promised 60 frames per second should also ensure that moving images are rendered very smoothly and without annoying jerks. The upgrade from WiFi 5 to WiFi 6 should also ensure a reliable Internet connection that is not only faster, but also more stable than the predecessor. On the other hand, nothing has changed on the outside of the compact set-top box. The second generation of the Apple TV 4K is pleasantly inconspicuous. Apple has also left everything the same in terms of connections. In addition to an HDMI 2.1 port, there is a power and Ethernet port on the back.

Practical integration of the iPhone

We already know effective collaboration between different Apple devices from features like AirPlay. But with the new Apple TV 4K, you should also be able to use your iPhone in other useful ways. For example, the color balance can be customized by filming your own TV or monitor. However, the most striking change of the new Apple TV is without a doubt the new remote control. Here, Apple delivers a completely new edition. However, this was also necessary in view of the great criticism of the old “Siri Remote”. The error-prone touch-sensitive glass surface of the predecessor is a thing of the past. Apple now relies on a more classic operation again. However, practical swipes, for example to enable fast scrolling, are still possible. Apple veterans will be reminded of the circular scrolling of the old iPod.

But not only the design, but also the number of buttons Apple has fundamentally revised. Now you have a few more buttons for the controls. One of the most practical innovations is probably the on/off button, which can now be used to turn on not only the Apple TV, but also the TV at the same time. The mute button, which can be used to mute the TV or the system, is also practical. Those who need Siri’s help will now find the button on the right side of the new remote control. This should make it easier to operate in the dark.

Prices and availability

You can buy the new Apple TV 4K in either 32GB or 64GB storage sizes. The MSRP of the two versions is 199 euros and 219 euros, respectively. Those who decide to buy the new set top box can expect delivery in the second half of May. If you are only interested in the new remote control, you can also buy it separately. Apple charges an MSRP of 65 Euros for this. It should not only be compatible with the old Apple TV 4K, but also with the Apple TV HD. You can buy it now on the official Apple website.