Apple takes aim at the Fire TV with an upgraded way to watch telly

Television addicts are getting a swathe of new ways to tune into their favourite shows. Sky has just announced its new Stream box which offers premium channels without needing a satellite dish and Amazon’s all-new Fire TV Cube gets buffer-free streaming via Wi-Fi 6E and is 20 percent faster than before. If that wasn’t enough to get binge-watchers excited, Apple has also joined the streaming party with the upcoming launch of its new Apple TV 4K box.

This mini set-top device is now more powerful than anything the tech giant has released before with it powered by Apple’s speedy A15 Bionic processor. This upgrade makes it around 50 percent faster than its predecessor with Apple boasting that animations should look snappier and things will feel more fluid when navigating menus.

Thanks also to the A15’s improved GPU, gaming will get a boost with graphics appearing smoother and more like a premium console.

Another bonus of that chip is that it helps the Apple TV use nearly 30 percent less power than the previous generation – this should help owners save money and help minimise its impact on the environment.

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Along with that better performance, the Apple TV 4K 2022 gets HDR10+ support – as well as Dolby Vision – which will make watching movies and boxsets feel more immersive. Users can also enjoy a home theatre experience thanks to Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital 7.1, or Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.

There’s also the improved Siri remote with an iPod-style clickpad which makes finding content, rewinding the on-screen action and scrolling through shows much easier and more precise than Apple’s original touch controller.

And just like previous models, the Apple TV 4K features all the most popular services from Apple such as TV+, Fitness+ and the App Store along with full access to platforms such as Netflix and Disney+.

It also securely connects to compatible smart home accessories, including HomeKit cameras, lights, shades, and more; allowing the user to set scenes and control their smart home while away.

“Apple TV 4K is the ultimate way for Apple users to enjoy their favourite entertainment on the biggest screen in the home, and now it is more powerful than ever,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “The new Apple TV 4K is unlike anything else out there, given its seamless connection to other Apple devices, ease of use, and access to amazing Apple content. It offers something for everyone in the family to love.”

Customers can order the new Apple TV 4K with Siri Remote today at a new starting price of £149, with availability beginning Friday, November 4.

As a comparison, the Fire TV is £139.99 and will be available next week.