10 New Features and Changes Introduced With 2022 Apple TV

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The third-generation Apple TV 4K announced this week is a relatively minor update, but the device still has at least 10 new features and changes. We've recapped everything new with the latest Apple TV below for those looking for a quick overview.

apple tv 4k yellow bg feature
What's new with the latest Apple TV:

  • A15 Bionic chip: The new Apple TV is equipped with the A15 Bionic chip for up to 50% faster performance than the previous model with the A12 Bionic chip. Apple says this results in improved responsiveness and faster navigation. Apple adds that graphics performance is up to 30% faster for smoother gaming.
  • 4GB of RAM: The new Apple TV is equipped with 4GB of RAM, compared to 3GB in the previous model, for improved responsiveness.
  • 128GB storage option: The new Apple TV is available with up to 128GB of storage, compared to a max of 64GB for the previous model.
  • HDR10+ support: In addition to Dolby Vision, the new Apple TV now supports HDR10+ content in supported apps.
  • Siri Remote with USB-C port: The new Siri Remote is equipped with a USB-C port instead of Lightning for charging.
  • Thinner and lighter design: Apple says the A15 Bionic chip's increased power efficiency allowed for the internal fan to be removed in the new Apple TV, resulting in the device having a more compact design that is around 12% thinner and around 50% lighter than the previous model.
  • No more "TV" branding on top: The new Apple TV no longer has "TV" imprinted on the top of the device and instead simply has a centered Apple logo.
  • Lower pricing: The new Apple TV starts at $129 with 64GB of storage, while the previous model started at $179 with 32GB of storage. While you need to spend $149 to get an Ethernet port, Thread support, and 128GB of storage, that's still cheaper than any of last year's models.
  • No charging cable in the box: The new Apple TV ships without a charging cable in the box for the Siri Remote, except in Brazil. Apple sells a new woven USB-C cable separately for $19.
  • Packaging changes: The new Apple TV comes in a slightly more rectangular box that no longer has outer plastic wrap.

The new Apple TV 4K is available to order now and launches Friday, November 4 in the U.S. and more than 30 other countries.

Related Roundup: Apple TV
Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)
Related Forum: Apple TV and Home Theater

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Top Rated Comments

darkazcura Avatar
darkazcura
43 months ago

Can somebody tell me the point of the Apple TV? Genuine question.

We have a smart TV and it's just simpler to use its own apps for things like Netflix or Amazon Prime, rather than mess around switching HDMI input and booting-up the Apple TV (which we do have, albeit an older one).

If I want to watch Apple TV shows then I do so on my phone, or MacBook.

Just about the only reason I've ever seen anybody use an Apple TV is for beaming photos onto the big TV screen. But that's not exactly an everyday thing.
For me, the Apple TV is faster, I like the interface, there are more apps available, and I find airpod integration really useful. I have a LG CX OLED, and that has one of the better TV interfaces out there. I still find it a pain to navigate most times. Most other TV interfaces are very clunky and slow in my opinion.

Also, HDMI switching isn't a hassle nor is "booting up" the Apple TV which is as instant as turning on the TV itself. I only use my TV for two things. My Apple TV or video games. When I click the power button on my Apple TV remote, it instantly turns on the TV, turns to the HDMI input if it happens to be on a different one, and turns on the Apple TV. By the time the TV is on, everything else is on. There is no fussing around like you are inferring.

Another thing is, if I switch TV brands, I don't have to "re-learn" another TV interface. I just move my Apple TV over, and it is a seamless transition.
Score: 45 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TheYayAreaLiving ?️ Avatar
TheYayAreaLiving ?️
43 months ago
The new Apple TV should have stared with a price point of $99 with 64GB of storage. What's up with the $129 price point! Seems out of place.
Score: 33 Votes (Like | Disagree)
dantracht Avatar
dantracht
43 months ago
Not sure those all count as features but I’m still glad it exits. Picked one up.
Score: 26 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Jimmdean Avatar
Jimmdean
43 months ago
of the higher-powered streamers Apple TV is the best value. way better than the slow junk on most TVs. and lots of convenience features for those that have other Apple devices like headphone handoff and homekit integration (doorbell ringers appearing on-screen in a window is my particular favorite). one of the better options for a Plex client as well.
Score: 20 Votes (Like | Disagree)
mjs916 Avatar
mjs916
43 months ago

Can somebody tell me the point of the Apple TV? Genuine question.

We have a smart TV and it's just simpler to use its own apps for things like Netflix or Amazon Prime, rather than mess around switching HDMI input and booting-up the Apple TV (which we do have, albeit an older one).

If I want to watch Apple TV shows then I do so on my phone, or MacBook.

Just about the only reason I've ever seen anybody use an Apple TV is for beaming photos onto the big TV screen. But that's not exactly an everyday thing.
For me, the built in smart TV software is clunky at best. I even have the latest Flex streaming device from my cable provider and it’s horrible also. I hate the remote too. I know Apple draws ire for the super slim TV remote but its responsiveness is unrivaled by any of the other devices I have. It plays audio through the tv and HomePod simultaneously and the AirPods are neat to hook up as well when the wife is asleep. We also play games every now and then which is fun and offers more than a smart TV typically would if at all.

I also watch OTA TV quite a bit and simply turning on the Apple TV auto-switches the TV to the correct input. There is no fussing with it.

That said, I think the Apple TV has always been overpriced.
Score: 17 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Joe Rossignol Avatar
Joe Rossignol
43 months ago

Not sure those all count as features but I’m still glad it exits. Picked one up.
That's why the headline says "Features and Changes" :)
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
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