Apple introduce Two Updated Apple TV Models

Apple has today announced, amongst other things, a new Apple TV, or rather two Apple TVs (Apples TV…?). The new models look visually precisely the same as the previous few iterations of the company’s set-top box, but with a few changes to the back end.

The Apple TV will now come in two distinct ‘flavours’ that go beyond the differences in storage size, with the base model only offering WiFi for connectivity and 64GB storage – up from 32GB on previous models. The more expensive model also offers an ethernet port for a wired connection and 128GB of storage.

Both models are equipped to work with WiFi 6 (AX), and both models also make use of Apple’s A15 Bionic Chip, as well as now offering HDR10+. However, only the more expensive model will offer Thread Border Router functionality, with the WiFi-only model making do with Bluetooth 5.0. Both models will still be able to act as home Hubs of course. This seems an odd move in some ways when you consider that Apple has arguably been pushing Thread way more than its competitors. Still, for those that only want a media box and no smart home functionality, the lower starting price of US$129 for the base model is probably a good value.

An improved Siri Remote is also included that now comes with a USB-C port instead of a Lightning port, although beyond this change it seems nothing else has changed. An update for TVOS is due soon that Apple claims will improve the functionality of Siri in combination with Apple TV.