Apple has refreshed the Apple TV 4K with an A19 chip, built-in far-field microphones and a full-screen Siri AI experience aimed at making the set-top box easier to use from across the room. The fourth-generation model is priced at US$299 and will be available from 13 November in the initial 30 markets.
Apple has not announced Malaysian pricing or availability. Siri AI launches in English in eight markets including Singapore, while Apple says the feature is also available in beta on second-generation Apple TV 4K models and newer.
Siri AI moves from the remote to the room
Three far-field microphones let users call Siri without holding the remote. Apple says echo cancellation can isolate a voice while content is playing, while the new full-screen interface can answer conversational entertainment queries, suggest titles and respond to follow-up questions without completely covering the programme.
When paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone, Siri AI can draw on personal context for requests such as finding a programme recommended in a message. The box also functions as an Apple Home hub, with support for accessory controls, automations, Thread and secure local processing of HomeKit Secure Video. Apple Intelligence can generate camera activity descriptions and condensed notifications, subject to compatible hardware and services.
A19 performance and a remote that is harder to lose
Apple claims the A19 delivers up to 50 percent faster CPU performance and up to twice the GPU performance of the previous generation. It also adds dedicated AV1 decoding, which should help compatible services stream high-quality video more efficiently. These are Apple’s performance claims and will need independent testing before buyers can judge the real-world improvement.
The familiar Siri Remote now supports Find My with Precision Finding and can play a sound when misplaced. Apple says second-generation and later Siri Remotes will also gain Find My support, while the new remote remains compatible with Apple TV HD and earlier Apple TV 4K boxes.
A broader home theatre role
The new model can create a four-speaker surround setup using matching front and rear pairs of HomePod mini 2 or second-generation HomePod speakers. Apple says the system detects speaker positions and automatically calibrates timing and levels for the room.
Apple TV 4K continues to support Apple TV, Apple Arcade, Fitness+, FaceTime through Continuity Camera and personalised iCloud photo screen savers. At US$299, however, it sits well above many streaming devices, so the strongest justification is likely for households already invested in Apple services, HomeKit accessories and HomePod speakers. Malaysian buyers should wait for local pricing and Siri AI support details before making that calculation.
