We are here to explain some of the most interesting entertainment features: Apple TV 4K thread support. Thread networking might be confusing to some users but no worries. If you can’t decide. With today’s update, Apple included support for Samsung’s HDR10+ standard in addition to the already-existing Dolby Vision on its Apple TV 4K. Apple also added a more potent processor and USB-C remote, but this time around, you’ll need to shell out more money for the more expensive model with Ethernet and 128GB of storage if you want your Apple TV to support Thread networking, a smart device standard.
Apple TV 4K thread support explained
To act as a HomeHub, which enables you to manage your smart HomeKit devices from outside your local network, you will need either an Apple TV or a HomePod. Apple TV 4K thread support is a mesh network connection for smart devices that uses less electricity and enables direct device-to-device communication rather than relying solely on your Wi-Fi router. Compared to using regular Wi-Fi compatibility, devices can use less energy and have longer battery lives because of thread.
Thread networking explained
The Thread networking change was perplexing to some users. Apple breaks down the differences between the two Apple TV 4K devices on the specifications page. Both the 32GB and 64GB models of the 2021 Apple TV 4K supported threads. One of the aspects that made the Apple TV appealing as a smart-home device is being segmented as Apple, and other businesses try to make the Matter standard the new standard for smart devices.
While the Matter standard can run on Wi-Fi, it also works over Thread and would reap the benefits of the mesh network’s lower power draw and reliability.
The base model Apple TV with 64GB of storage and Wi-Fi goes for $129, while the 128GB version with Ethernet and Thread support goes for $149. Personally, the 128GB version would have to be my go-to. I’m still waiting for Matter devices to become mainstream, but once they do, that Thread support alone is easily worth the $20 extra.
Apple TV 2021 vs 2022
The still-relatively-new Apple TV 4K (2021) will be replaced by the new Apple TV 4K (2022), which is making its case with more reasonable pricing and a few minor changes. But how does it compare to the prior design?
Streaming devices don’t come and go on an annual or biannual basis as some of Apple’s other gear does. However, the new Apple TV 4K (2022) targets both current users and potential new ones.
Apple’s costly streaming device is no longer as glaringly overpriced as it once was, thanks to a $50 price cut and improved internal storage. Additionally, the A15 Bionic chip and HDR10+ compatibility are included for speedier performance and better picture quality.
| Apple TV 4K (2022) | Apple TV 4K (2021) | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $129/£149/AU$219 | $179/£169/AU$249 |
| Starting storage | 64GB | 32GB |
| Wireless connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with 2×2 MIMO | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with MIMO; simultaneous dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
| Gigabit Ethernet | Only in 128GB $149 model | Yes |
| Resolution | Up to 4K UHD at 60 fps | Up to 4K UHD at 60 fps |
| Dimensions | 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.2 inches | 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches |
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Supported audio formats | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 |
| Supported video formats | Dolby Vision, HDR10+/HDR10/HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10/HLG |
| Remote control | Siri remote | Siri remote |
| Processor | A15 Bionic | A12 Bionic |
Apple TV 4K tech specs
- Chipset: A15 Bionic
- Storage: 64GB / 128GB
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6
- Ports: HDMI / Ethernet (128GB version only)
- Video: SDR video with AVC/HEVC, Dolby Vision, HDR10+/HDR10/HLG with HEVC, MPEG-4 video up to 2.5 Mbps
- Audio: HE-AAC (V1), AAC, protected AAC (from iTunes Store), MP3 (up to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, Apple Lossless, FLAC, AIFF, and WAV; AC-3 (Dolby Digital 5.1), E-AC-3 (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound), and Dolby Atmos
Conclusion
Although we adore the Apple TV 4K, we have always believed that the $179 price tag for the 2021 model is just too high for the majority of consumers. Now, the Apple TV 4K (2022) might address that; in our opinion, its finest new feature is its pricing.
The additional performance and picture quality enhancements in the new Apple TV may be cool for those with money to burn, but the market for upgraders feels constrained. Since the Apple TV 4K was always quick and is still not inexpensive, we don’t think this year’s model will tempt many owners of the most recent model back to the store. Check out the latest iPad Pro if you need a new tablet!
