Apple’s next-gen Apple TV 4K may be coming soon

Apple’s next-gen Apple TV 4K may be imminent. Rumors point to an early 2026 launch (possibly spring), featuring major upgrades like an A17 Pro-class chip for faster performance, better gaming, and Apple Intelligence support; an advanced N1 wireless chip with improved Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread for smarter home hub capabilities; enhanced Dolby Vision; and potential additions like a built-in camera for FaceTime.

This would make the Apple TV a more central player in Apple’s evolving smart home ecosystem, especially alongside rumored new HomePod mini, hub devices, and tvOS enhancements.

Jon Ratcliffe for HomeKit Authority:
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Even if Apple keeps “Apple Intelligence” branding focused on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, the Apple TV is a perfect place for the real world benefits. A smarter Siri could make content discovery feel less frustrating, improve hands free control, and introduce on screen awareness so commands work based on what you’re currently watching or doing. That changes the experience from basic voice shortcuts to something that feels genuinely assistant like on the sofa.

The second major rumour is Apple adding its own combined wireless chip, often referred to as N1, which would bring modern Wi Fi and Bluetooth upgrades alongside Thread. In practical terms, that means faster speeds, better reliability, and lower latency, which matters both for 4K streaming and for Apple Arcade gaming, but also for Apple Home setups that rely on a stable hub. Thread is already supported on the current Apple TV, but an upgraded radio stack could make a big difference in homes packed with connected devices.”

There is also the recurring idea of a built in camera. This one is harder to call, but it makes total sense. FaceTime on Apple TV is genuinely useful, yet using your iPhone as the camera is awkward because it steals your phone and adds friction. A built in camera would turn Apple TV into a more complete living room device, and it would match the steady improvements Apple has been making to the FaceTime experience on tvOS. Although some would question the placement of the camera on the Apple TV itself instead of a device that fits on the top of a TV.

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MacDailyNews Take: Most chatter now points to this spring, so we could see Apple’s next-gen Apple TV 4K within a few short weeks!