New Apple TV box reportedly won't support 4K

By Joe Cox
published

A new Apple TV box is likely to be noticeably more expensive than the existing unit and will offer voice control and a new interface - but won't support 4K video.

Next week's Apple event is likely to reveal new iPhones and also a new Apple TV set-top box but the latest reports suggest this box won't support 4K Ultra HD video.

While it will get a serious spec boost in the form of the A8 chip used in the iPhone 6, a refreshed user interface, an app store and voice control courtesy of Siri, the usually reliable 9to5Mac reports that 4K video support is likely to be a missing feature.

Despite this, the new Apple TV streaming box is likely to cost $149 (£97), despite the existing Apple TV box currently being on sale for $69 in the US and £59 in the UK. As a result, it's suggested the exsiting Apple TV box will continue as a budget option.

The new Apple TV is likely to come with 8GB or 16GB of internal storage, run a version of the new iOS 9 operating system, and come with a new-look remote that supports touch and motion control.

Siri voice control, which is trailed on the invitation as a key theme for next week's Apple event, will also be deeply embedded in the new Apple TV experience.

It's likely the connections will remain the same, with HDMI and digital optical outputs.

All is set to be revealed from 6pm UK time on Wednesday 9th September.

MORE: Apple September event: what we expect to see

MORE: Apple TV review

Joe Cox
Joe Cox
Content Director

Joe is Content Director for T3 and What Hi-Fi?, having previously been the Global Editor-in-Chief of What Hi-Fi?. He has worked on What Hi-Fi? across the print magazine and website for more than 15 years, writing news, reviews and features on everything from turntables to TVs, headphones to hi-fi separates. He has covered product launch events across the world, from Apple to Technics, Sony and Samsung; reported from CES, the Bristol Show, and Munich High End for many years; and written for sites such as the BBC, Stuff, and the Guardian. In his spare time, he enjoys expanding his vinyl collection and cycling (not at the same time).