The Apple TV has long been a staple in the tech giant's lineup, bridging the gap between personal devices and the living room. As we look forward to 2026, anticipation builds around what Apple might bring to the table with its next iteration of the Apple TV 4K. While the product was originally expected in 2025, it seems Apple has pushed the release, possibly to align with other smart home innovations. So, what's on the horizon for the Apple TV 2026, and should you hold off on buying the current model?
Design & Hardware
Don't expect any radical changes on the design front. According to Juli Clover at MacRumors, the 2026 Apple TV will stick with the familiar slimmed-down black plastic body that we've seen in previous models. This design continuity may disappoint those hoping for a visual update, but it also suggests a focus on internal enhancements rather than cosmetic ones.
Performance & Key Specs
One of the most significant updates expected is the inclusion of a newer A-series chip. The current Apple TV 4K hosts the A15 Bionic chip, but the 2026 model is rumored to leap to the A17 Pro chip, as per MacRumors and echoed by NetNewsLedger. This chip is notable for its 3-nanometer architecture and its capacity to handle console-quality games thanks to its 6-core GPU and hardware-accelerated ray tracing capabilities. Such an upgrade would make the Apple TV a more formidable competitor in the gaming space.
Connectivity is another area of improvement. The upcoming model is expected to support either Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, offering faster speeds and lower latency, which is crucial for seamless 4K streaming. MacRumors also suggests the inclusion of Apple's custom N1 networking chip, which adds Wi-Fi 7 support, allowing for connections over the less congested 6GHz band. This is particularly beneficial in homes with multiple smart devices.
Smart Home Integration
Smart home capabilities continue to be a focus for Apple. The new Apple TV is likely to maintain its role as a Home hub, supporting Thread and Matter protocols for broader smart home device compatibility. As NetNewsLedger points out, this could enhance the Apple TV's utility beyond entertainment, integrating it more deeply into smart home ecosystems.
Release Date & Pricing
The timeline for the Apple TV 2026's release remains speculative. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg hinted at a post-2025 launch, potentially in the spring of 2026 to coincide with other home-related product launches, including a new home hub device. Pricing predictions from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest a model could be priced under $100, a strategic move to capture a wider market. However, with the inclusion of advanced chips like the A17 Pro and N1, it's uncertain whether the flagship model will hit this price point. A more affordable entry-level option could be on the cards, maintaining the current price range starting at $129.
The Bottom Line
For those already invested in the Apple ecosystem or looking to upgrade their smart home setup, waiting for the 2026 Apple TV might be worthwhile. The anticipated enhancements in processing power and connectivity, coupled with its role as a smart home hub, position it as a significant upgrade over the current model. However, if your primary use is streaming and you don't require cutting-edge speed or gaming capabilities, the current Apple TV 4K remains a solid choice. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your current setup and the importance of future-proofing your home entertainment and smart home systems.