Apple tv: the upgrade you've been waiting for (finally)

Published on 31/05/2026 22:47 in technology • Elizabeth Moore

For months, Apple has been sitting on a finished redesign of its Apple TV box. Yes, the very device that hasn't seen a significant overhaul since 2010. The reason? It’s been waiting for software – specifically, the new Siri and Apple Intelligence – to catch up. Now, it appears those delays are nearing an end, and a refresh is on the horizon.

A familiar form factor, a powerful boost

A familiar form factor, a powerful boost

Don't expect a radical visual transformation. According to sources familiar with the matter, the next Apple TV will retain the same design it’s sported for over a decade. The real story lies within: a faster chip. While Apple hasn't confirmed the specific processor, it's widely anticipated to be a significant upgrade from the current A15 chip. This, in itself, is a cause for celebration.

The A15, while capable, is showing its age. As apps become more demanding, the current model has occasionally felt sluggish, a growing frustration for users. A modern chip would address this directly, restoring the Apple TV's responsiveness and ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable streaming experience. Rivals like Google and Amazon have already moved on, leaving Apple’s box somewhat behind in terms of raw performance.

The Siri Remote refresh? Likely a subtle internal tweak, a detail enthusiasts might only notice upon closer inspection. The focus, unequivocally, is on the silicon upgrade.

But why the holdup for so long? The answer, frustratingly, points to software integration. Apple’s desire to bundle the new Apple TV with enhanced Siri and Apple Intelligence capabilities seems to have been the primary driver of the delay. It’s a testament to Apple's ecosystem approach – hardware and software must work in perfect harmony.

However, this extended wait means that Apple has had fully functional hardware gathering dust for months. If the fall launch timeline holds true, those who’ve felt their Apple TV starting to lag will finally have a reason to rejoice. A simple chip bump, it turns out, can make a world of difference.