Apple TVs are popular for being an excellent portable TV streamer option, among many other reasons. Their additional integrated features make them a more accessible choice. Apple updates their TVs infrequently, with releases around every three years. The second-generation Apple TV 4K (2021) is the latest addition to Apple’s lineup.
Read on to learn what to expect from Apple’s latest TV.
What Are the Newest Apple TVs?
The second-generation Apple TV 4K was announced in April 2021 and is Apple’s newest TV. It offers a future-proof design, and many other features that may impress you. Here are some of its best features.
4K Support
The second-generation Apple TV 4K support means it has four times the number of pixels of 1080p projectors. Its 4096 x 2160 resolution makes it an ultra-high-definition projector. Compared to the best HD projectors around, this device will offer you a more saturated color with a smooth and lifelike display.
High Frame Rate HDR Support
This Apple TV frame rate is higher than the old standard rate for cinema and TV of 24, 25, or 30fps. Higher rates are significant if you enjoy sports or gaming. The more frames per second (fps), the more fluid motion, smoother actions, and the greater level of detail that can be controlled within a moving image.
New Siri Remote With Clickpad
The latest Apple TV comes with a completely overhauled Siri remote design that looks good and creates an overall snappier user experience. It features an all-aluminum body that has replaced the touchpad interface with a touch-sensitive clickpad and several additional control buttons. The clickpad can go through the menus and rewind or fast-forward videos.
This remote is noticeably thicker than its predecessor. Apple believes that the new, bigger, and thicker remote makes it easier to find and hopefully not get lost in between the couch cushions. The buttons are tactile, making them more satisfying to press.
Apple has included dedicated power and mute buttons as well as the standard volume controls, pause/play buttons, etc. You can also activate Siri via a side button.
A12 Bionic Processor
The Apple “A12 Bionic” is a 64-bit chip based on ARM technology. Apple advises that this change creates more lifelike videos, realistic games, and an intensified, immersive sound. In addition to more efficient and faster performance, you’ll experience tech like never before, as the A12 is equipped with next-generation artificial intelligence technology.
32GB or 64GB Storage Options
To store your Apple TV’s abundance of apps, you’ll have a choice of up to 64GB of storage space.
Auto Color Balance Feature
One of the 4K TV’s most intriguing features is the color balance TV calibration. This technology uses the same FaceID sensor as the iPhone and allows the video output to be personalized to your TV’s specific color balance. It works by Apple TV outputting a test image to your TV that can be measured using an iPhone. Apple TV then compares the measured color balance to industry-standard guidelines, then improves the contrast by adjusting the output to correct any inaccuracies.
Sound Quality
The new Apple TV supports audio formats such as Apple Lossless, MP3, AAC, FLAC, and WAV for stereo and surround formats–Dolby Atmos. It accommodates “spatial audio” via AirPods Max headphones and AirPods Pro. This means you can enjoy a Dolby Atmos movie experience from your headphones.
Apps
This box offers an almost ideal selection of apps. Apple TV+, Netflix, and Disney + are present in 4K, Dolby Vision, and Amos. The small selection of Dolby Vision content is usually available via Amazon Prime Video, which you’ll receive in regular HDR10 via the Apple TV app.
You’ll benefit from additional apps like AMC, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, Hulu, Epix, HBO Max, and Peacock. UK viewers will have access to their UK-based BBC iPlayer, All 4, ITV Hub, Now, My5, and BT Sport. The Australian selection includes Binge and Stan. The Apple TV app is designed to do its very best to create a customized list of recommendations for you by collecting content from your subscriptions.
Compatibility
The second-generation Apple TV will accommodate all high-definition TVs with HDMI capability.
Older Apple TVs
The other Apple TV available is the Apple TV HD (2015). It features an excellent picture and sound quality, reasonable voice recognition, and cross-platform search capability. However, it doesn’t have as many apps as the newer version, and the price tag may be considered expensive for what it offers.
It caters to displays with up to 1080p resolution, has an A8 processor, and only 32GM of storage space. On the other hand, its decent viewing experience with plenty of rich, detailed colors and solid contrast makes this version worth considering. The sound quality can be described as solid, precise, and agile. It supports Dolby Digital 7.1; however, getting 7.1 depends on the service and what you’re watching.
Due to its age and lower specifications, and also the fact that it’s only slightly cheaper than the second-generation 4K, you’ll probably be better off spending the extra dollars on the latest model. However, there’s no need to rule out the Apple TV HD (2015). It is still a great option, especially if you’re on a budget, aren’t planning to buy a 4K TV, or have no problems purchasing an older model.
Which Apple TV Will It Be?
The second-generation Apple TV 4K is the predecessor of the Apple TV HD, and some might think the six-year gap was well worth the wait. The latest model offers a future-proof and long-lasting design with a faster processor, additional memory, and more apps. The 4K picture quality is more intense and smooth for gaming and sports. The Siri remote has had a complete redesign for a better user experience, and Apple believes that the bigger size will help keep it in sight. However, the slightly cheaper 2015 model delivers a decent experience overall and is still a good option.
Which, if any, of the Apple TV devices are you considering? Let us know what you think about them in the comments section below.
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