The most current version of Apple TV 4K is here. Two versions are available that are separated by a variety of features , and priced at just $20, and a few important improvements from time to time. It’s easy to just focus on what’s new or different, but I’ve got my own perspective on the Apple TV 4K 2022 review.
I’m convinced that the fact that nothing much has changed is some of the best information I have to share, however certain new features, like an extremely powerful processor, put the capabilities of the brand new Apple TV 4K 2022 over the over the top.
However, if you’re thinking about making savings even more by getting the 2nd generation model, read details about differences between them by reading the Apple TV 4K (2021) comparison. Apple TV 4K (2022) comparison.
What’s new
For starters, let’s go through the two latest Apple TV 4K products we have. The first thing to note is that prices have fallen a bit and I think we all can agree is a huge move towards our direction. There’s the new $130 version as well as an option for $150, which is approximately $50 cheaper than the version that the last update cost at the time of launch. Both models come with the same Siri remote, which now has an USB-C connection. Both have An A15 Bionic chip both of which are compatible with HDR 10+, in along with Dolby Vision HDR as well as a variety of other HDR formats.
Upgrading to the premium version gives you double the storage onboard 128GB, up from 64GB on the lower version. It also has Gigabit Ethernet capability (the lower model does not have it) It also has Thread networking and Thread networking support, which we’ll talk about further in the next section.
I’ll focus on the premium model in this review because it’s the model I was given to test and also because I think should you decide to purchase an Apple TV 4K for the first time, Apple TV 4K, this is the model to purchase.
It’s not expensive at all, just 20 dollars more than the less expensive model. As I’ll explain shortly, there’s a great possibility that you’ll need more storage later on even if you do not require the Ethernet port or Thread support.
Potent potential
I’m ecstatic to see a USB-C Siri remote (even although it’s kind of a boring update) and the fact that Gigabit Ethernet is available together with support for Thread the most noticeable enhancement of the new Apple TV 4K is the upgrade to Apple’s A15 Bionic chip.
One of the primary reasons why I suggest people purchase the Apple TV is that the device has always had an enormous amount of processing headroom in addition, the A15 bionic model — which is up over that of the A12 in the second-generation model is a continuation of that trend. In contrast to other technology devices that are plagued by planned obsolescence and a lack of maintenance, this Apple TV 4K is built to last. For the next several years it will be able to run the latest applications as well as provide rapid loading times and speedy scrolling. It’ll be able to handle ever extravagant display graphics. It’ll be able to handle any updates Apple might have in its plans or other things Apple hasn’t even thought of in the past.
To put it in another way it’s possible that a one-of-a-kind Apple TV 4K that was released in 2017 probably works well, and is still being supported by Apple.
I have an LCD TV in my home. It’s just two years old. It is now as slow as molasses to open apps, and there are a lot of delays the process of starting a stream. It frequently stalls me, which is extremely frustrating. It’s unlikely to experience that problem on the Apple TV 4K, because the processor is an enormous beast. I’m amazed at how fast the experience with the device can be. The apps seem to be launched slightly faster than 2021 models, and are certainly quicker than the older HD version.
Is Apple’s gaming future on the horizon?
I believe that the power is there for at least another motive that isn’t related to the possibility of future-proofing. Apple provided me with an PlayStation 5 controller along with the review device without providing any further information about it. Apple hasn’t released any specific information regarding any new developments to its gaming plans however, there is a be the case that the faster processor can provide more smooth and fluid gameplay in games that are available today, and more graphically intensive games in the future.
I’m not sure what’s on the future for Apple Arcade or if Apple’s gaming goals extend far beyond Apple Arcade, or at minimum Apple Arcade as we know it now. However, there is a nudge that tells me that gaming won’t be an added-on feature that fades into the background as it did with Roku, for instance. Roku (or completely shut down as with Google Stadia.)
It’s very likely that the brand Apple TV 4K’s new Apple TV 4K could be an entry point to Apple’s larger and better gaming plansperhaps the gaming plan of Netflix. I can imagine it being a possibility of the Apple TV 4K making it to Netflix’s list of compatible devices in the near future, and if it is then this Apple TV 4K will be in a position to compete in those games.
This is where the necessity for additional onboard storage is. If Apple is more aggressive about creating their Apple TV 4K an actual game console, then having the storage to support larger games will be absolute necessity.
Of course, I’m hoping — perhaps foolishly so Apple TV 4K might in the near future allow cloud-based gaming, even if the largest cloud-gaming players currently are Apple rivals.
The smart home is stitched up
Outside of gaming capabilities, I consider that the latest Apple TV 4K is a kind of Trojan horse, or a way to get a better digital home. I am aware that the previous generation Apple TV 4K already has the Thread radio however, something is different in this version.
Thread, if you’re familiar, is a standard intended to make the use of smart devices much more simple than it has been in the last few years. Consider it an low-power wireless communication system that is independent of the wireless network in your home. For instance, suppose you buy an electronic doorbell with a video that’s Thread-enabled. Instead of connecting to your network through an application, it could simply connect to the Local Thread Network. The Thread network is that “thread” that stitches all your smart home devices together. Only one device in the Thread needs for internet connectivity and then all devices are connected to the internet.
I’m convinced that the brand newly released Apple TV 4K here is likely to be one of the major factors in that transformation as it unfolds. It’s a feature which has been integrated in the 2nd generation Apple TV 4K for a time However, something about Apple making a point of highlighting it within the price of $150 for its Apple TV Wi-Fi/Ethernet model makes it appear like it’s about to explode. It’s a good thing that the Apple TV 4K as a hub for your home is looking increasingly promising.
To reiterate it, you need to purchase an expensive $150 Apple TV 4K for all the Thread things. The cheaper model doesn’t include it.
For those who are AV enthusiasts.
Then, there’s the introduction to HDR 10+ compatibility. This is fascinating since it basically assists Samsung TV owners. Samsung is the one that has remained silent regarding Dolby Vision and is refusing to pay licensing costs to bring the technology to their televisions and instead moving forward with the free and open norm that is HDR 10+. When you consider that Samsung is the most popular TV manufacturer in terms of sales, it is logical that Apple would be looking to cater to this market.
This means that shows and films on such platforms as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV + that previously been plain-jane HDR on the Samsung TV, while everybody else was using Dolby Vision, will be available in HDR 10+. This is providing the best overall HDR experience that is much more similar to the experience enjoyed by Dolby Vision viewers.
As long as I’m discussing A/V features that are appealing to aficionados I believe I should look into Spatial Audio with the Apple TV 4K. This is the one thing that this Apple TV 4K does that does not other streaming devices are performing nearly as well as it is right now. AirPods Pro 2 or the AirPods Pro 2 or the AirPods Max connected to the Apple TV 4K, with head tracking on I believe that it is, to me the most enjoyable personal audio experience you can get to watch movies. I’m saying this after having listened to some extremely convincing DTS Headphone:X demonstrations. Spatial audio on Apple products, however it is a complete solution that is simply working and is a lot of fun. It’s the closest I’ve ever heard of big-theater Dolby Atmos at home and I’m saying this from someone who has tried a variety of Dolby Atmos Soundbars as well as Dolby Atmos surround systems.
The end of that black screen
Anyone who has experienced an unsettling picture dropout when switching from one kind or media format to another will be happy to know that a upcoming TVOS update will enable the Apple TV 4K (2022) to support fast media switching, more commonly referred to in the A/V world as QMS. As one of the promises for HDMI 2.1 options, QMS will work in concert with the variable frequency of display (VRR) for ensuring that there is an absence of “adjustment period” — that manifests in the form of a blank screenin the event of switching from the 24 FPS film in a 30 FPS movie. There are currently no TVs that are compatible with QMS however, they will, and once they will, the futuristic Apple TV 4K (2022) will be available.
An incredible streamer that is not only for Apple users.
For a quick recap of what’s new: A15 Bionic Chip keeps the Apple TV 4K seriously overpowered which is a positive thing. It appears that Gaming is going to get larger with this Apple TV 4K, though there’s no way to be confirmed. HDR 10+ compatibility will bring an improved experience for Samsung TV owners. Its built-in Thread radio makes the box in good shape to be the center of a smart home. And we’re only a step from not having Lightning cables any more as Apple continues to move towards USB-C.
This is the case with the latest Apple TV 4K, but much of what has drawn me to this set-top streaming box isn’t changing and isn’t something new. Do I enjoy it?
I believe that. But it wasn’t always this way but it was a different story. For a long time I wasn’t at all in love of Apple TV 4K. Apple TV 4K. It was expensive, hilariously overpowered, and a bit too to be an Apple fan gadget. However, over time I’ve changed my mind.
I’ve grown to love Apple TV. Apple TV, because it is consistently quick, has the most ad-free interface and it has top-quality cross-platform search that lets you locate and start watching whatever you’d like to watch and it is always able to support the top audio and video quality across a wide range of applications.
Yes, there is an extensive list of reasons why Apple device owners will particularly appreciate, such as SharingPlay and Siri controls using AirPods and Audio Sharing. Picture calibration, and the ability to utilize an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch as a remote. AirPlay, HomeKit, Apple Photos, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness are integrated with the Apple Watch so you can track your rings’ progress on screen while you exercise. The list is endless.
Are you sure it’s the most flexible streaming device available? It’s true, Nvidia Shield can do certain things that Apple TV 4K can’t. For convenience, I’m more likely to put an upgraded Chromecast in my backpack than to carry around an Apple TV 4K. However, overall this Apple TV 4K is probably the most sophisticated, smartest streamer that is future-proof that can meet the majority of users’ requirements. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone, but what it does will be better than any other device.
