The new Apple TV 4K from 2021 has been around for more than two months, but I still didn’t want to miss the opportunity to leave my impressions here. So the Apple TV, along with the new iMacs and iPad Pros, was a bit lost and many people weren’t aware of whether they needed the new Apple TV or not. Let’s clarify this:
An overview of the most important changes:
Briefly and quickly and simply summarized:
faster processorrevised remote controlWifi 6 and thread on boardHDMI 2.1 instead of 2.0 as its predecessorThe new Apple TV 4K from 2021 is included in delivery
Brilliant: The new remote control
The new remote control alone may not be a reason to buy, but it is definitely awesome. Feels good and valuable in the hand thanks to the solid aluminum production. The touch field of the previous remote has been replaced by the four-way control. The operation is much easier and is simply more intuitive, but you can still operate in the field using touch gestures. The circular movement on the outer ring to wind faster is also a nice solution. If you just want the new remote, you can also buy it separately.
The new Apple TV Remote
Equipped for the smart home future
What many people missed was the integration of Thread into the new Apple TV. If you don’t know Thread yet, it is a wireless radio protocol with low power consumption for smart home applications. In doing so, Thread creates a mesh network. Well, many people may think that this is another new standard, but be careful: Thread was created to replace the limitations of previous systems and is also a strong partner with numerous well-known companies. Apple, Amazon and Google alone should show the power behind it.
Color calibration with the iPhone
I have no idea what it’s like for you, but I’m often annoyed by the coloring and image corrections. I usually disable everything on the TV, but what Apple has created here is as simple as it is ingenious. You can select “White balance” directly in the “Video and Audio” settings on the Apple TV. You will then be asked to do the white balance directly on the TV using the iPhone camera. Very easy and quick, well done. Attention, if you have Dolby Vision working, you will not be able to use this function.
Apple TV 4K 2021 in use
Apple TV 4K in use
I’m always happy about setting up new Apple devices, including the Apple TV. Simply use the iPhone with your own Apple ID to pair the Apple TV and the rest is a formality. The operation of the new Apple TV is the same as before, but for me it was time to try out Arcade. Not a good idea, there are some games with a lot of addictive potential, like Song Pop Party… When using Siri you have to get used to speaking “German”, Swiss German is still not supported. I’m not a fanatic of voice input and also use Apple TV without the function.
Conclusion
The question of whether the new Apple TV 4K from 2021 is worth it is a question that is often asked. Depends on many factors, especially since the function is often built into new smart TVs. But the scope of the streaming box is still simply brilliant thanks to apps and speed with the beautiful interface and screensavers. Anyone who is in the Apple ecosystem will love it. Those who still had the previous model are less likely to be persuaded to buy it than others. But I especially enjoy HDR content, so if you have the right TV at home, go for it!