An internal Apple graphic uncovered on September 25, 2026, reveals that Apple is preparing to release a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K equipped with Wi-Fi 7 support.
MacRumors reported that contributor Aaron Perris discovered the unreleased image file inside Apple's backend infrastructure, specifically cataloged for an "Apple TV 4K (4th generation)" device. While the leaked asset indicates the physical chassis remains identical to the 2022 third-generation model, the hardware revisions target wireless throughput and processing headroom.
The primary networking upgrade centers on Apple's proprietary N1 wireless silicon. The chip introduces Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support to the media streamer, replacing the Wi-Fi 6 radio deployed in the current model. Wi-Fi 7 adds multi-link operation, allowing the client to send and receive data across the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz spectrum bands simultaneously when connected to a compatible router. While residential broadband service caps real-world throughput during video playback, multi-band concurrency reduces channel contention and latency spikes in dense wireless environments.
Under the hood, the streaming device upgrades from the A15 Bionic processor found in the 2022 release to an A17 Pro or newer application processor. System memory doubles from 4GB to 8GB of RAM, satisfying hardware requirements for Apple Intelligence and on-device Siri processing slated for tvOS 27. The upgraded silicon also introduces hardware-accelerated ray tracing, improving local graphics performance for Apple Arcade titles.
Apple last refreshed the hardware lineup in October 2022, splitting the release between an entry-level Wi-Fi unit and an upgraded tier with Gigabit Ethernet. In June 2026, Apple adjusted pricing on both units, raising the 64GB Wi-Fi version to $199 and the 128GB Wi-Fi and Ethernet version to $249. An updated Siri Remote is expected alongside the new Apple TV 4K hardware release.
