Apple TV 4K: Alleged new model in September

It has been three years since Apple updated its small set-top box, the Apple TV, with new hardware. Now there are growing rumors that a new edition could be released in the autumn. However, it is still controversial whether this will only involve updating existing components. Or whether Apple might add something entirely new, such as a camera.

Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman got the ball rolling some time ago when he predicted a new Apple TV 4K for the year 2025. Now a source has contacted the Apple news blog MacRumors and held out the prospect of Apple replacing the device with a new one in the fall. The old one will then be completely withdrawn from sale.

Camera hints in tvOS 26

The camera rumors began with the introduction of FaceTime on the Apple TV. However, this can only be used together with a suitable iPhone, with the smartphone acting as the camera for the video conference. However, testers of tvOS 26 noticed that Apple apparently wants to intensify the use of a camera in the next version of the Apple TV operating system, which indicates that it will not remain the current workaround. However, how an Apple TV camera is to be sensibly integrated into the box so that it delivers usable images remains an open question.

Another hot candidate for the update is the introduction of Apple's AI, Apple Intelligence. This could significantly improve voice-based navigation and simplify operation, which is mainly carried out using a remote control with just a few buttons. However, Apple Intelligence requires at least the A17 Pro chip or the A18 as well as sufficient RAM. Both could be realized with the update of the device.

Presentation on September 9?

Apple could also integrate its own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip into the Apple TV for the first time, although this is unlikely to bring any significant changes for users.

The most likely date is currently September 9th. The launch of this year's iPhones is also expected to take place on this date.

(mki)