Here's What's Coming in the 2026 Apple TV

Source: MacRumors

There are a lot of folks waiting for a new version of the Apple TV because the set‑top box hasn’t been updated since 2022. An update is coming this year, but it will be delayed until the next version of Siri is released this fall.

Design

Apple TV design updates don’t happen often, and that’s not changing in 2026. The next Apple TV will retain the same squircle shape and black plastic material as the current model. We expect the 2026 Apple TV to be indistinguishable from the existing device on the exterior, with no changes to size or design.

New Chip

The Apple TV 4K is expected to receive a new A‑series chip, likely the A17 Pro introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models. Compared to the A15 Bionic in the current Apple TV, the A17 Pro offers a 3‑nanometer process, faster speeds, better efficiency, and hardware‑accelerated ray tracing for higher‑quality graphics in games. It also supports Apple Intelligence and is used in the iPad mini 7.

Given the long wait for an Apple TV refresh, it’s possible Apple could opt for an even newer chip such as the A18 or A19, and a RAM increase may accompany any Apple Intelligence support.

Apple Intelligence and Siri

The next Apple TV is technically ready to launch, but new Siri features are holding it back. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that the Apple TV is linked to “new artificial intelligence features” postponed until iOS 27, slated for September 2026. Apple intended to launch Apple Intelligence‑enabled Siri in spring 2026, but issues have delayed those capabilities until iOS 27. The same delay affects the rumored home hub and a new HomePod version.

Updated Siri features may require more RAM and a faster chip, giving another reason to wait before purchasing.

Wi‑Fi

The Apple TV could incorporate Apple’s N1 networking chip with Wi‑Fi 7 support, leveraging the 6 GHz band for faster, less congested connectivity—ideal for streaming.

Bluetooth and Thread

The Apple TV 4K may adopt Bluetooth 6 for improved connections to controllers and earbuds. The N1 chip also supports Thread, allowing the Apple TV to continue serving as a Thread border router and Matter hub for smart‑home devices.

Pricing

Rumors suggest a possible price drop, with Apple potentially offering two models: a higher‑end version and a lower‑spec, lower‑price option, or retaining the current Apple TV as a budget-friendly choice.

Launch Date

Because the new Siri features are tied to iOS 27, the refreshed Apple TV is unlikely to appear before September 2026 at the earliest.