Apple TV (device)
Home media streaming device from Apple
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Apple TV is a Home Entertainment System and microconsole made by Apple. It is a piece of networking hardware that sends received media data such as video and audio to a TV or external display. Its media services include streaming media, TV Everywhere, local media sources, sports journalism and broadcasts.
- 1st generation: January 9, 2007
- 2nd generation: September 1, 2010
- 3rd generation: March 16, 2012
- 3rd generation rev A: January 28, 2013
- HD: October 30, 2015
- 4K (1st generation): September 12, 2017
- 4K (2nd generation): May 21, 2021
- 4K (3rd generation): November 4, 2022
.svg) | |
_with_Siri_Remote_(cropped).jpg) Apple TV 4K with Siri Remote | |
| Developer | Apple |
|---|---|
| Type | Digital media player Microconsole |
| Released |
|
Introductory price | |
Online services | 8,000 total apps, including 2,000 games and 1,600 video apps (as of October 27, 2016)[5] |
| Website | apple.com/apple-tv-4k |
The first-generation Apple TV was introduced in 2007 and was primarily intended to download and play content from the iTunes Store. The second-generation model in 2010 was redesigned as an all-streaming device and was only compatible with HDMI-equipped enhanced-definition or high-definition widescreen televisions. The fourth-generation model released in 2015 introduced the tvOS operating system with third-party app support.
Apple TV lacks integrated controls and can only be controlled remotely, using a Siri Remote, iPhone, iPad, Apple Remote, or a third-party infrared remote complying with the fourth generation Consumer Electronics Control standard.
Background
![](#/media/File:Macworld_San_Francisco_banner_"Introducing_Apple_TV"-2007-01-09.jpg)
Prior to the launch of Apple TV, Apple made many attempts to create TV-based devices. In 1993, Apple released the Macintosh TV in an effort to enter the home entertainment industry. The device had a 14-inch CRT screen and a TV tuner card.[6] It was not a commercial success, with only 10,000 sold before its discontinuation in 1994.[7] That year, the company developed the Apple Interactive Television Box, a collaboration with BT Group and Proximus Group that was never released to the public.[7][8] Apple's final major attempt before the Apple TV was the Apple Pippin in 1995, which was a combination home game console and networked computer, which only sold around 42,000 units.[7][9]
Models
First generation
At a September 2006 special event, Apple announced the first-generation Apple TV. It was originally announced as "iTV" to fit into their "i"-based product naming convention, but was renamed "Apple TV" before launch due to a trademark dispute with British broadcasting network ITV, which threatened legal action against Apple.[10][11] Preorders began in January 2007, and the device was released that March. It was based on a Pentium M processor, ran a variant of Mac OS X Tiger, and included a 40 GB hard drive.[12] It supported output up to 720p on HDTV via HDMI, and supported some standard definition televisions via component video.[13] At launch, Apple TV required a Mac or Windows-based PC running iTunes on the same network to sync or stream content to it.[14]
A model with a 160 GB hard drive was released in May 2007. The 40 GB version was discontinued in September 2009.[15] In February 2008, it became a stand-alone device through the "Take 2" version 2.0 software update, which removed the requirement of iTunes syncing from a separate computer, and allowed media from services such as iTunes Store, MobileMe, and Flickr to be rented or purchased directly on the Apple TV.[16] In July 2008, Apple released the software 2.1 update, which added external recognition of iPhones and iPod Touches as alternative remote control devices to the Apple Remote.[17]
The first-generation Apple TV can be modified into a makeshift Intel Mac Mini using a USB boot disk image available online; installation to the built-in hard drive is possible by flashing the image to the drive.[18]
The first generation Apple TV has a 1 GHz Intel Pentium M CPU, and 256 MB of RAM. Neither the CPU nor RAM can be upgraded without soldering. The device has one HDMI interface, one USB port, one 10/100 BASE-T Ethernet port, and a component video interface. An internal fan provides cooling for the hard drive and power supply, relying on the upper aluminum casing to act as a passive heat sink for the CPU.[19][20]
Second generation
Apple released the second-generation Apple TV in September 2010. Based on the ARM-based Apple A4 chip instead of an Intel x86 processor, it runs a variant of iOS.[21][22] It has a black housing and is one-quarter the size of the first-generation model. The device has 8 GB of flash storage for buffering, replacing the internal hard drive in the first-generation model. It supports output up to 720p via HDMI and does not support standard definition televisions.[23][24]
In conjunction with its release, Apple renamed AirTunes to AirPlay, with support for streaming video from iPhones, iPads, and Macs to Apple TV.[25]
Third generation
At a March 2012 special event, Apple announced the third-generation Apple TV. Externally identical to its predecessor, it includes an A5 chip with one core deactivated and supports 1080p video output.[26][27] It also allows remote access to HomeKit devices.[28]
Apple quietly released a "rev A1469" of the hardware in March 2013.[29][30] It uses a single-core variant of the A5 chip and draws less power than the original third-generation model.[29] Despite Apple's promise before the revision's launch that "the component changes ... don't affect product features",[31][32] in September 2014, Apple TV Software 7.0 introduced peer-to-peer AirPlay exclusively for the rev A model.[30]
The third-generation Apple TV was discontinued in October 2016.[33] In December 2017, Apple added support for Amazon Prime Video.[34] The Apple TV app, bundled with Apple TV Software 7.3, was released in May 2019.[35]
HD (originally fourth generation)
On September 9, 2015, Apple announced the fourth-generation Apple TV at a special event. The fourth-generation model uses a new operating system, tvOS, which has an app store, allowing downloads of third-party apps for video, audio, games and other content. It uses a 64-bit Apple A8 chip, and adds support for Dolby Digital Plus audio. The HDMI 1.4 port supports HDMI CEC. It is taller but otherwise resembles the second and third generation models.[36][37]
The model comes with the Siri Remote, which replaced the arrow button on previous Apple TV remotes with a touchpad that uses swipe-to-select gestures. It also adds Siri support, a built-in microphone, volume control over HDMI CEC and IR, and an accelerometer (IMU).[38][39]
Upon release, third-party applications were available from a limited range of providers, with new APIs providing opportunities for more software options. New apps and games were initially required to interface with the Siri Remote's touchpad, which was later relaxed for games.[40][41][42]
The fourth-generation Apple TV started shipping in October 2015. Several unexpected problems, such as incompatibility with the iTunes Remote app for iOS and watchOS,[43] were fixed by Apple in tvOS 9.1 on December 8, 2015.[44]
On September 13, 2016, Apple released tvOS 10, bringing an updated remote app, single-sign on, and a light-on-dark color scheme. tvOS 10 also introduced HomeKit support and allows it to function as a home hub to control appliances remotely, grant guest access, and set up automations.[45]
After newer 4K versions of the Apple TV were released, Apple continued to sell the fourth-generation model as an entry-level option, rebranding it as the Apple TV HD in March 2019.[46][47] On October 18, 2022, following the release of the third-generation 4K model, the Apple TV HD was discontinued after seven years on the market.[47]
4K (first generation)
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At a special event on September 12, 2017, Apple announced the Apple TV 4K, which supports 2160p output, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and includes a faster Apple A10X chip supporting HEVC hardware decoding. Support for Dolby Atmos with Dolby Digital Plus was added in tvOS 12.[48][49] Following the announcement of the new models, the 64 GB version of the Apple TV HD was discontinued.[50] Changes to the case include the addition of vents on the base, the removal of the USB-C port, and the addition of a tactile white ring around the Menu button on the included Siri Remote.
4K (second generation)
On April 20, 2021, Apple announced an updated Apple TV 4K with the A12 Bionic chip, support for high frame rate HDR, HDMI 2.1, and Wi-Fi 6. Its HDMI port supports ARC and eARC, which allows other sources plugged into the television to output audio through Apple TV, including to AirPlay speakers like HomePod.[51] Like the HomePod mini, it has a Thread radio. It can pair with the ambient light sensor on iPhones with Face ID to optimize its color output, a feature that was also extended to older Apple TVs with tvOS 14.5.[52] AirPlay supports high frame rate HDR playback, allowing videos shot on the iPhone 12 Pro in Dolby Vision 4K 60fps to be mirrored in full resolution. Following the announcement, the previous Apple TV 4K (1st gen) was discontinued.[53] tvOS 17 added FaceTime and support for Continuity Camera with a paired iPhone or iPad.[54]
The model also comes with a thicker, redesigned Siri Remote with a circular touchpad with navigational buttons, as well as power and mute buttons. The remote does not include an accelerometer and gyroscope, which were present in the previous Siri Remote, making it incompatible with some games.[55] The remote is compatible with previous generation tvOS-based Apple TVs and ships with an updated SKU of the Apple TV HD.[56]
4K (third generation)
On October 18, 2022, Apple announced an updated Apple TV 4K with the A15 Bionic chip with a 5-core CPU (one high efficiency core disabled) and 5-core GPU, support for HDR10+, reduced weight and dimensions (no more fan), and removed the "TV" text from the top of the unit, leaving only the Apple logo. It supports HDMI 2.1 QMS that allows a change of refresh rate without having a blank screen interruption.[57] It comes in two configurations, a Wi-Fi-only model with 64 GB of storage, and a more expensive 128 GB model with Wi-Fi, Ethernet and a Thread radio. The included Siri Remote charges via USB-C instead of Lightning.[58]
Features
Apple TV devices can play video, music, and podcasts, and since the fourth generation model, can download apps and games from the tvOS App Store. The first, second and third generation models offered limited content that Apple had provisioned to work with Apple TV. Software development for those models was discontinued after the release of the fourth generation Apple TV, with an OS based on iOS called tvOS, which lets developers create their own apps for Apple TV.[59] These include multimedia, music apps, and games.[60][61]
Features of Apple TV include:
- Video streaming
- Users of Apple TV can rent or buy movies and TV shows from the iTunes Store, or stream video from a variety of services found in the tvOS App Store.
- Users can stream live and on-demand content from apps that support login through a cable provider by way of one universal app also called Apple TV (now "TV"). The single-sign on feature in tvOS 10.1 and later allows users to log in to all of these apps at once, bypassing the need to authenticate each individually.
- Music and Podcasts streaming
- Users can access their music and podcasts libraries that they purchased in iTunes through iCloud using the Music and Podcasts apps. Users can also subscribe to music streaming services and access content.
- Photos
- Apps and games
- Games can use the accelerometer and gyroscope along with the touchpad found on the Siri Remote for control. External Bluetooth game controllers can also be paired.
- Casting and mirroring
- With AirPlay, users can stream or mirror content wirelessly from an iOS device or Mac. Its functions include:[63]
- Casting, which allows users to wirelessly send video or audio from their iPhone, iPad, or Mac to the Apple TV.
- Mirroring, which allows users to wirelessly mirror their Mac screen or AirPlay device to the TV, using it as a second monitor.
- Peer-to-Peer AirPlay, which uses Bluetooth to connect if the Apple TV and the iOS Device/Mac are not on the same Wi-Fi network.
- With AirPlay, users can stream or mirror content wirelessly from an iOS device or Mac. Its functions include:[63]
- Siri
- Siri is built into the fourth generation and later Apple TV. It enables voice dictation in text fields, including usernames and passwords.[12]
- Universal search is available for a wide number of apps in the United States. In Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, the feature is limited to iTunes and Netflix. In Australia, universal search supports movies and TV shows in iTunes, Netflix, and Stan.[64][65]
- A Live Tune-In feature that allows the viewer to ask Siri to tune to live streams.
- HomeKit
- The third-generation[66] Apple TV and later can be used as a home hub to control HomeKit devices, such as locks, thermostats, or garage doors either locally or over the Internet. HomeKit Automation, such as automatic implementation of scenes, multiple user support, and using Siri to control devices, and remote access for shared users or HomeKit-enabled cameras is only possible with a fourth generation Apple TV or later.
- General
- HDMI CEC to control other devices in a user's home theater setup.[67]
- App Switcher, which enables users to switch apps.
- Aerial Screensaver, which allows the TV to display a flyover view of a city when Apple TV is inactive. Screensavers can also be invoked from the home screen by pressing menu on the Siri Remote once.[68]
App Store
- With the fourth-generation Apple TV (Apple TV HD) and tvOS, Apple announced the App Store, which allows any developer to make apps.[69]
- The App Store is unavailable to previous Apple TVs and is a feature of the fourth generation Apple TV onward.
- Because tvOS and iOS share a common codebase and kernel, apps can be ported from iOS to tvOS.
- The App Store supports various third-party utilities and entertainment services.
Accessibility
Since tvOS is based on iOS, it inherits many of the accessibility features of iOS and macOS[70] and is compatible with Apple's entire product line including the Apple Watch as a remote controller for the Apple TV. tvOS includes VoiceOver, Zoom, and Siri as tools to assist users with low vision. When a wireless keyboard is paired, VoiceOver provides audio feedback by speaking each character as it is typed. The Apple TV HD and later are compatible with the Apple Wireless Keyboard and the Apple Magic Keyboard.[71]
Apple TV supports closed captioning. Compatible episodes and movies are denoted with a CC (closed captioning) or SDH (Descriptive Audio) icon in the iTunes Store either on the Apple TV or in iTunes itself. The viewer can customize the styles and fonts of captions according to their preferences and needs.[72] Apple's Remote app on iOS devices allows control of the Apple TV from an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch.[73]
Restrictions
Similar to Google's redesign of YouTube, Apple has restricted access to most viewed charts on movies and podcasts. They are replaced by "Top Movies", "Top Podcasts", and "Editor's Picks".[74] Parental controls can limit access to content via "Restrictions" settings; individual services can be turned off. Internet media is split into four categories: "Internet Photos", "YouTube", "Podcasts", and "Purchase and Rental". Each of the categories is configured by a parental control of "Show", "Hide" or "Ask" to prompt for a 4-digit PIN. In addition, media can be restricted by rating.[75]
Local sources
Apple TV allows users on a computer running iTunes to sync or stream photos, music and videos.[76] A computer on a local network can be connected to maintain a central media library of digitized CD, DVD or HD content,[77] provide direct connectivity to photo organization software such as iPhoto,[78] limit home video access to a local network only,[79] play Internet radio,[80][81] or preload content on Apple TV to be used later as a non-networked video player.[82] Synchronization and streaming modes are supported when Apple TV is connected to a computer.[76]
Apple TV in synchronization mode functions in a way similar to the iPod. It is paired with an iTunes library on a single computer and can synchronize with that library, copying all or selected content to its internal storage. Apple TV does not need to remain connected to the network after syncing.[82][83]
Apple TV can also function as a peer-to-peer digital media player, streaming content from iTunes libraries and playing the content over the network.[84][85] First-generation Apple TVs can stream content from up to five computers or iTunes libraries. Five Apple TVs can be linked to the same iTunes library.
The second-generation Apple TV onwards can stream content from more than one iTunes library: these additional iTunes libraries can be on the same or on different computers; the Apple TV and iTunes library must be on the same local network and have the Home Sharing feature enabled using the identical Apple ID. Apple TV HD and newer can also stream content locally using third-party apps such as Plex, Kodi, VLC media player, Emby and MrMC.
Supported formats
Apple TV natively supports the following audio, video, and picture formats (although with the Apple TV HD and later, apps may use alternative built-in software in order to play other codecs and formats, e.g. Emby, MrMC, VLC media player, Kodi and Plex):
| Codec | First generation | Second generation | Third generation | HD (originally fourth generation) | 4K (first generation) | 4K (second generation) | 4K (third generation) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Video/image | HEVC H.265 | Not supported | 1080p SDR Main/Main 10 up to 30 FPS via software decoding | 2160p SDR Main/Main 10 up to 60 FPS, Dolby Vision (Profile 5)/HDR10 (Main 10 profile) up to 30 FPS | 2160p SDR/Dolby Vision (Profile 5)/HDR10 (Main 10 profile) up to 60 FPS | |||
| - | HDR10+ support | |||||||
| .m4v, .mp4, and .mov containers | ||||||||
| AVC H.264 | 720p at 24 FPS, 960 by 540 at 30 FPS | 720p at 30 FPS | 1080p at 30 FPS |
1080p at 60 FPS | 2160p at 60 FPS | |||
| .m4v, .mp4, and .mov containers | ||||||||
| AV1 | Not supported | 1080p SDR via software decoding[86][87] | 2160p SDR via software decoding[86][87] | |||||
| VP9 | Not supported | 2160p SDR via software decoding[88] | 2160p SDR | |||||
| MPEG-4 | 640x480 at 30 FPS | |||||||
| .m4v, .mp4, and .mov containers | ||||||||
| Motion JPEG | Not supported | 720p at 30 FPS (.avi) | ||||||
| JPEG | Supported | |||||||
| GIF | Supported | |||||||
| TIFF | Supported | |||||||
| HEIF | Not supported | Supported | ||||||
| Audio | HE-AAC (V1) | Not supported | Up to 2 channels, 16 to 320 kbit/s | |||||
| AAC, protected AAC | Up to 2 channels, up 160 kbit/s AAC-LC in video containers or 320 kbit/s for audio only | |||||||
| MP3 | Up to 2 channels, 16 to 320 kbit/s | |||||||
| Apple Lossless | Up to 2 channels | |||||||
| FLAC | Not supported | Up to 2 channels | ||||||
| AIFF | Up to 2 channels | |||||||
| WAV | Up to 2 channels | |||||||
| Dolby Digital (AC-3) | Up to 5.1 channels | |||||||
| Dolby Digital Plus (E-AC-3) | Not supported | Up to 7.1 channels | Up to 7.1.4 channels with Dolby Atmos metadata | |||||
Attempts to sync unsupported content to Apple TV will draw an error message from iTunes.[89] The first and second generation Apple TV video output can be set to either 1080i or 1080p; this resolution is limited to the user interface and the viewing of photographs; all other content is upscaled to those resolutions. Those models cannot play 1080i or 1080p video content.[90][91][92] The third- and fourth-generation Apple TV support 1080p video content. The Apple TV 4K supports 4K resolutions and HDR, including Dolby Vision.
Apple offers AVC 1080p video content encoded at rates from 4 to 8 Mbit/s and HEVC 4K video encoded at rates up to 30 Mbit/s through iTunes and the TV app.[93][94] In comparison, films on Blu-ray are 1080p H.264 or VC-1 video encoded at rates of up to 40 Mbit/s, while films on Ultra HD Blu-ray are 2160p HEVC video encoded up to 128 Mbit/s.[95]
Apple TV's audio chip supports 7.1 surround sound,[96] and some high definition rentals from iTunes are offered with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.[97] There is an Apple TV export option in QuickTime, which allows content in some formats that the device does not support to be easily re-encoded.[98] Applications that use QuickTime to export media can use this; e.g., iMovie's Share menu,[99] iTunes' advanced menu,[100] and some third-party content conversion tools.[101]
Connectivity
Apple TV streams video through an HDMI cable (Type A) connected to the TV's HDMI port. Audio is supported through the optical or HDMI ports. The device also has a Micro-USB port, which is reserved for service and diagnostics. The device connects through Ethernet or Wi-Fi to the computer to sync digital content from the Internet and local networks.
Apple TV does not come with audio, video or other cables, which must be acquired additionally as required.[102]
The first-generation Apple TV had component video and RCA connector audio ports, both removed in the 2nd generation. The device does not have RCA/composite video or F/RF connectors,[85][103] but can unofficially output color via composite.[104]
Starting with the Apple TV HD, Apple removed the optical audio port. The 4th generation Apple TV removed the USB hardware port in favor of the reversible USB-C port. The 5th generation Apple TV removed USB entirely.[citation needed]
AirPlay
AirPlay allows iOS devices or an AirPort-enabled computer with the iTunes music player to send a stream of music to multiple (three to six, in typical conditions) stereos connected to an AirPort Express (the audio-only antecedent of Apple TV) or Apple TV.[105] The AirPort Express' streaming media capabilities use Apple's Remote Audio Output Protocol (RAOP), a proprietary variant of RTSP/RTP. Using WDS-bridging,[106] the AirPort Express can allow AirPlay functionality across a larger distance in a mixed environment of wired and up to 10 wireless clients.
Speakers attached to an AirPort Express or Apple TV can be selected from within the "Remote" iPhone/iPod Touch program, allowing full AirPlay compatibility[107]. A compatible Mac running OS X Mountain Lion or later can wirelessly mirror its screen to an Apple TV through AirPlay Mirroring.[108][109] A Mac running OS X Mavericks or later can also extend its display with AirPlay Display.
Remote control
Apple TV can be paired with the included Apple Remote or Siri Remote.[84][110][111] The Apple Wireless Keyboard is supported on the second-generation Apple TV and later via Bluetooth.[112] Third-party keyboards that use the Apple layout may also be compatible.[112]
On July 10, 2008, Apple released iTunes Remote, an iOS application that allows the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad to control the iTunes library on the Apple TV via Wi-Fi.[113][114] The Apple Watch also has a remote app to control Apple TV.[115] The Remote App was updated on September 13, 2016,[116] to take advantage of all the features of the Apple TV 4. This includes Siri, Touchpad, and Home Buttons, along with a now playing screen.
On September 9, 2015, Apple announced the new Siri Remote for the fourth-generation Apple TV (Apple TV HD). In some territories, Apple has kept the name Apple TV Remote, due to Siri functionality not being enabled.[117]
It is a redesigned remote that includes dual microphones for Siri support and a glass touch surface for navigation around the interface by swiping or tapping and scrubbing to fast forward or rewind. It has a menu and home button, a Siri button to invoke Siri, a Play/Pause button, and a Volume Up/Down button to control the volume of the TV.
The Siri Remote communicates with the Apple TV via Bluetooth rather than infrared, removing the requirement of a line-of-sight with the device. The new remote is only supported by the Apple TV HD and later, and will not work with earlier generations.
Siri
Voice commands can control media playback, toggle closed captioning, and launch specific applications.[118]
Software
First generation
The original Apple TV ran a modified build of Mac OS X v10.4 Tiger.[119]
Apple TV Software 1.0
Apple TV software 1.0 presented the user with an interface similar to that of Front Row. Like Front Row on the Mac, it presents the user with seven options for consuming content. Movies, TV Shows, Music, Podcasts, Photos, Settings, and Sources. It was a modified version of OS x v10.4 Tiger.[120]
Apple TV Software 2.0
In February 2008, Apple released a major and free upgrade to the Apple TV, labelled "Take Two" (2.0). This update removed Front Row and introduced a new interface in which content was organized into six categories, all of which appeared in a large square box on the screen upon startup (movies, TV shows, music, YouTube, podcasts, and photos) and presented in the initial menu, along with a "Settings" option for configuration, including software updates.[121][122]
Apple TV Software 3.0
In October 2009, Apple released a minor upgrade for the Apple TV called "Apple TV Software 3.0".[123] This update replaced the interface in version 2.0 with a new interface that presented seven horizontal columns across the top of the screen for the different categories of content (Movies, TV Shows, Music, Podcasts, Photos, Internet, and Settings).[124] This update also added features such as content filtering, iTunes Extras,[125] new fonts, and a new Internet radio app. One new feature in particular was the 'Genius' playlist option allowing for easier and more user friendly playlist creating.[126]
Second and third generation
The 2nd and 3rd generation Apple TVs run a version of iOS, rather than the modified Mac OS X of the original model.[127] The interface on Apple TV Software 4 is similar to that of previous versions, with only minor changes and feature additions throughout.
In March 2012, Apple released a major software update, with the Apple TV 3rd generation, labeled as Apple TV Software 5 (iOS 5.1), which shipped with the new 3rd generation Apple TV. This update completely revised the look of the home screen to make it resemble the icon grid seen on iOS. Instead of 7 columns, content and third-party channels are shown in a tiled grid format,[128] which can be rearranged. In Apple TV Software 5-6, Apple released minor revisions, content additions, and feature updates.
The Apple TV Software 7.0 features a flat look similar to iOS 7 and OS X Yosemite and adds features such as Peer-To-Peer AirPlay.[129] Version 8.0 was skipped. Apple TV Software 7.2.2 (iOS 8) is currently available for the Apple TV (3rd generation), which does not support tvOS 9.0 or later. It does support Amazon Video, which was automatically added to those Apple TVs running Apple TV Software 7.2.2 on December 6, 2017.[34]
In May 2019, Apple TV Software 7.3 (iOS 8.4.2) was released to the public. This update was the first update for the 3rd generation Apple TV since 2016. This update adds the new Apple TV app to the home screen. The Apple TV app brings compatibility to the Apple TV Channels service. This update also fixes some security flaws found in Apple TV Software 7.2.2 and earlier.[example needed][130]
On September 24, 2019, Apple TV Software 7.4 (iOS 8.4.3) was released to the public.[131]
On March 24, 2020, Apple TV Software 7.5 (iOS 8.4.4) was released to the public.[132]
HD and 4K
The Apple TV HD and later run an operating system called tvOS,[133] which does not support the earlier generations of Apple TV. It features an app store, allowing third-party app developers to release their own apps on the platform.[134] The new software also features support for Siri voice control.
The tvOS software development kit (SDK) for developing tvOS apps is included in Xcode 7.1 and later.[135] A new development feature, App Thinning, is used in tvOS, due to the storage restrictions of the device and the dual-use of the NAND Flash Memory to precache content from Apple's servers, as well as storage for downloaded applications from the tvOS App Store.
Apple's aim is to limit the size of application downloads and to steer users toward downloading individual segments of apps in order to better manage storage space. Developers have reacted with criticism toward the download size limits, arguing that it leads to situations where game data is purged and has to be re-downloaded.[136]
End of life
First generation
The first generation Apple TV lost access to YouTube in May 2015.[137]
In September 2018, Apple discontinued iTunes Store support for the first generation Apple TV, with accessibility being obstructed due to obsolete security standards.[138][139]
Second and third generation
iOS 10, released in 2016, removed the ability to use the third generation Apple TV as a hub to control Apple Home automations. It retained support as a hub for remote access to devices.[140]
With the release of iOS 16 in 2022, Apple Home received a major redesign based on a new architecture which the third generation Apple TV did not support, and remote access no longer functioned in homes upgraded to it. Support for the legacy Apple Home architecture was removed in iOS 26, released in 2025.[141]
iOS 16 removed support for most AirPlay functionality with the second and third generation Apple TV, including playback of DRM content.[142]
YouTube was removed from the second generation model in May 2015 and the third generation model in March 2021.[143][144] HBO dropped support for its apps on both models in 2020.[145] Hulu dropped both models in October 2022,[146] and Netflix dropped both models in June 2024.[147]
Technical specifications
| Legend: | Discontinued and unsupported | Discontinued but supported | Current | Upcoming |
|---|
| Models | Apple TV 1st generation |
Apple TV 2nd generation |
Apple TV 3rd generation |
Apple TV HD | Apple TV 4K 1st generation |
Apple TV 4K 2nd generation |
Apple TV 4K 3rd generation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photos | |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
| |
| Announced | September 12, 2006 | September 1, 2010 | March 7, 2012 | September 9, 2015 | September 12, 2017 | April 20, 2021 | October 18, 2022 | |
| Release date(s) | January 9, 2007 May 30, 2007 (160 GB)[148] |
September 1, 2010 | March 7, 2012 January 28, 2013 (Rev A) |
October 30, 2015 | September 22, 2017 | May 21, 2021 | November 4, 2022 | |
| Discontinued | September 14, 2009 (40 GB) September 1, 2010 (160 GB) |
March 7, 2012 | March 10, 2013[149] September 8, 2016 (Rev A) |
September 12, 2017 (64 GB) October 18, 2022 (32 GB) |
April 20, 2021 | October 18, 2022 | In production | |
| Unsupported | N/a | September 17, 2014 | N/a | Fully supported | ||||
| Model number | A1218 | A1378 | A1427 A1469 (Rev A) |
A1625 | A1842 | A2169 | A2737 (64 GB) A2843 (128 GB) | |
| Model ID | AppleTV1,1 | AppleTV2,1 | AppleTV3,1 AppleTV3,2 (Rev A) |
AppleTV5,3 | AppleTV6,2 | AppleTV11,1 | AppleTV14,1 | |
| Order number | MA711 | MC572 | MD199 | MGY52 (32 GB) MLNC2 (64 GB) |
MQD22 (32 GB) MP7P2 (64 GB) |
MXGY2 (32 GB) MXH02 (64 GB) |
MN873 (64 GB) MN893 (128 GB) | |
| Processor | Intel "Crofton" Pentium M[150] | Apple A4 | Apple A5 | Apple A8 | Apple A10X Fusion | Apple A12 Bionic | Apple A15 Bionic | |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce Go 7300 with 64 MB VRAM[151] | |||||||
| Neural Engine | N/a | 8-core | 16-core | |||||
| Memory | 256 MB of 400 MHz DDR2 SDRAM[152] | 256 MB LPDDR2[153] | 512 MB LPDDR2[154][unreliable source?] | 2 GB LPDDR3[155][156] | 3 GB LPDDR4[157][158] | 4 GB LPDDR4 | ||
| Storage | 40 or 160 GB internal HDD | 8 GB NAND flash for cache[154][159] | 32 or 64 GB NAND flash | 64 or 128 GB NAND flash | ||||
| Peripheral connections | Output | HDMI (unspecified revision) | HDMI 1.4 | HDMI 2.0a | HDMI 2.1 with eARC | HDMI 2.1 with eARC and QMS | ||
| Component video | N/a | |||||||
| Optical audio | N/a | |||||||
| Service port | USB 2.0[160] | Micro-USB | USB-C | Contacts inside Ethernet port for a Lightning adapter[161][162][163] | N/a[158] | |||
| Connectivity | ||||||||
| Wi-Fi 4 (802.11b/g and draft-n)
(Broadcom BCM94321MC, dual-band, 300 Mbit/s)[164] |
Wi-Fi 4 (802.11a/b/g and draft-n) | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11a/b/g/n)
(Broadcom BCM4330, dual-band, 300 Mbit/s)[166] |
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11a/b/g/n/ac)
(Broadcom BCM4345, dual-band, 867 Mbit/s), with MIMO 2×2 |
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax)
(Broadcom BCM43572, dual-band, 1200 Mbit/s), with MIMO 2×2 | ||||
| N/a | Thread | Thread (128 GB model only) | ||||||
| 10/100 Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet (128 GB model only) | ||||||
| N/a | Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR (support for keyboards only)[165] | Bluetooth 4.0 (support for keyboards only)[112][167] | Bluetooth 4.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 | ||||
| Infrared receiver | ||||||||
| Video output | ||||||||
| 1080p (undefined, following the Version 3.0 software update), 720p 60/50 Hz (NTSC/PAL), 576p 50 Hz (PAL), 480p 60 Hz (NTSC)[168] over HDMI (HDCP capable) or Component Video (480i 60 Hz is unofficially supported) |
720p, 576p, 480p over HDMI only (HDCP capable) |
1080p, 720p, 576p, 480p over HDMI only (HDCP capable) |
2160p, 1080p, 720p, 576p, 480p over HDMI only (HDCP capable) | |||||
| SDR | SDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision | SDR, HDR10+, Dolby Vision | ||||||
| Audio output | ||||||||
| Optical audio (48 kHz maximum sample rate), HDMI, RCA analog stereo audio | Optical audio (48 kHz fixed sample rate), HDMI | HDMI-CEC, AirPlay, Bluetooth | ||||||
| Supports output up to 5.1 channels | Supports output up to 7.1 channels | Supports output up to 7.1.4 channels (Dolby Atmos) | ||||||
| Power | Built-in universal 48 W power supply | Built-in universal 6 W power supply | Built-in universal 11 W power supply[169] | Built-in universal 13 W power supply[157] | Built-in universal 5.2 W power supply[170] | |||
| Cooling | Active | Passive | Active | Passive | ||||
| Dimensions | Height | 28 mm (1.1 in) | 23 mm (0.91 in) | 36 mm (1.4 in) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | |||
| Width | 200 mm (7.9 in) | 99 mm (3.9 in) | 93 mm (3.7 in) | |||||
| Depth | 200 mm (7.9 in) | 99 mm (3.9 in) | 93 mm (3.7 in) | |||||
| Weight | 1,100 g (39 oz) | 260 g (9.2 oz) | 430 g (15 oz) | 208 g (7.3 oz) 64 GB 214 g (7.5 oz) 128 GB | ||||
| Included remote | Apple Remote (plastic) |
Apple Remote (aluminum) |
Siri Remote (first generation) (2015–2021 SKUs) |
Siri Remote (first generation) |
Siri Remote (second generation) |
Siri Remote (third generation) | ||
| OS | Initial | Apple TV Software 1 | Apple TV Software 4 | Apple TV Software 5 Apple TV Software 5.2 (Rev A)[171] |
tvOS 9[172] | tvOS 11 | tvOS 14.5 | tvOS 16.1 |
| Latest | Apple TV Software 3.0.2 | Apple TV Software 6.2.1 | Apple TV Software 7.9[173] | tvOS 26.5 | ||||
| Timeline of iOS devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Apple TV, and Apple Watch models |
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Limitations
Functionality
Apple TV contains neither a TV tuner nor a personal video recorder.[84][89] Both capabilities can be applied to the connected home computer through various third-party products, such as allowing PVR software to connect to iTunes and enable scheduled HDTV recordings to play automatically via Apple TV for playback.[176] Apple TV HD and newer can be linked with Wi-Fi-based tuners such as HDHomeRun.[177]
The Movies search box only searches the iTunes Store, not local hard drives and networks.[178]
Movies rented on Apple TV must be watched on Apple TV, unlike iTunes rentals, which can be transferred to any video-enabled iPod, iPhone, or Apple TV.[179][180] Movies purchased on Apple TV can be moved to a video-enabled iPod or iPhone via iTunes.[181]
Apple TV prior to 4th generation (Apple TV HD) did not support the HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (HDMI CEC) protocol.[citation needed]
On the Apple TV (2nd generation), digital output audio is up-sampled to 48 kHz, including lossless CD rips at 44.1 kHz. Although this is a higher frequency and the difference is not audible, it is seen by some[who?] as falling short of digital transmission of data standards due to the audio not being 'bit perfect'.[182]
Sales
1st generation
Within the first week of presales in January 2007, Apple TV was the top pre-selling item at the Apple Store.[183] Orders exceeded 100,000 units by the end of January and Apple began ramping-up to sell over a million units before the 2007 holiday season.[184] Analysts began calling it a "DVD killer"[185] that could enable multiple services. Analysts also predicted that Apple could sell up to 1.5 million units in the first year.[186] Besides the Apple Store, Best Buy was one of the first retailers to carry the device;[187] Target and Costco[188] followed shortly thereafter.
Two months into sales, Forrester Research predicted at the time that Apple would only sell a million Apple TV units, because consumers prefer advertisement-supported content over paid content. Forrester predicted that cable companies would be the clear winners over content providers such as the iTunes Store.[189] Shortly after, Apple released YouTube functionality and Jobs stated that Apple TV was a "DVD player for the Internet". Some market analysts predicted that YouTube on Apple TV "provides a glimpse of this product's potential and its future evolution",[190] but overall, analysts had mixed reactions regarding the future of Apple TV. Some negative reactions followed after Jobs referred to the device as a "hobby", implying it was less significant than the Macintosh, iPod, and iPhone.[191]
In the fourth quarter of 2008, sales were triple that of the fourth quarter of 2007.[192]
In Apple's first-quarter 2009 financial results conference call, acting chief executive Tim Cook stated that Apple TV sales increased three times over the same quarter a year ago. Cook mentioned that the movie rental business was working well for Apple, Apple would continue investment in movie rentals and Apple TV, but Apple TV is still considered a hobby for the company.[192] Due to the growth of digital TV and consumers turning to Internet media services, an analyst at the time predicted sales of 6.6 million Apple TVs by the end of 2009.[193]
2nd generation
The second generation sold 250,000 units in the first two weeks it was available. On December 21, 2010, Apple announced that they had sold 1 million units.[194][unreliable source?] In the second fiscal quarter of 2011, it had topped 2 million in total sales, with 820,000 sold in that quarter alone.[195]
On January 24, 2012, Apple announced they had sold 1.4 million units in the first fiscal quarter of 2012,[196] and 2.8 million units in all of fiscal year 2011.[197] (4.2 million units through January 1, 2012).
3rd generation
Tim Cook announced at the All Things Digital conference in May 2012 that Apple had sold 2.7 million of the 3rd generation model in 2012.[198]
In the Q4 FY2012 earnings call, Engadget reported comments from Tim Cook that Apple had shipped 1.3 million Apple TV units in the 4th Quarter (presumed to be 3rd generation).[199]
MacObserver reported statements by Tim Cook in the Q1 FY2013 earnings call that Apple sold over 2 million Apple TV units in the December Quarter (presumed to be 3rd generation).[200][unreliable source?]
These reports lead to a cumulative volume of the 3rd generation device of 6 million units, as of January 1, 2013.[citation needed]
On February 28, 2014, at Apple's shareholders meeting, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that in 2013 Apple TV brought in 1 billion dollars of revenue for Apple.[201]
A market survey published by Parks Associates in December 2014 found that Apple TV has lost consumer traction to Google Chromecast, garnering only a 17% market share.[202]
Tim Cook announced at the Apple Special Event on March 9, 2015, that Apple had sold a total of 25 million Apple TVs up to that point.[203]
HD, 4K and later
During an Apple earnings call on January 27, 2016, CEO Tim Cook stated that the Apple TV had record sales, although further details were not provided.[204] In June 2019 it was estimated that there are 53 million units of all generations in use worldwide.[205]
In 2019, Apple analyst John Gruber stated the Apple TV sells at a low profit margin or a loss, saying units are effectively sold at cost.[206]
See also
- Comparison of digital media players
- Mac Mini, which originally featured the Front Row application, a ten-foot user interface similar to that of the Apple TV
