Apple TV 4K Adds Siri AI and Far-Field Microphones

The new model, available for preorder starting October 13th, features a substantial price hike over its predecessor. Beyond the AI-driven voice assistant, the device introduces advanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, while maintaining 128GB of storage. The Siri AI integration relies on natural language processing to handle complex queries, though responses appear as visual text overlays rather than spoken audio to avoid disrupting media playback. A standout feature is the ability to leverage personal context from an iPhone, allowing users to locate content referenced in private text messages.

Audio performance receives a major upgrade, enabling the device to pair with up to four HomePod units—either second-generation models or the newly announced HomePod Mini 2—to create an immersive surround-sound environment. The system automatically calibrates these speakers based on their physical placement within a room. Additionally, the Siri Remote finally gains Find My tracking support. By utilizing Bluetooth channel sounding, users can trigger an audible chime or pinpoint the remote's location via an iPhone, resolving a long-standing frustration for many home theater enthusiasts.