The set-top box from the manufacturer Apple is called Apple TV. This handy device is connected to a television or computer screen. The box plays various media contents via a local network. The 1st generation was released on September 1, 2010. The new device is already the 4th generation and has powerful hardware and new features .

The Apple TV 4 has several improvements

The current set-top box has been available in German stores since September 9, 2015. The differences to its direct predecessor are already apparent at first glance. The housing of the new set-top box is significantly larger than that of its predecessor. It is still sold by Apple and of course costs significantly less money. The current player is about 35 mm higher than its predecessor and is therefore also heavier. The two generations do not differ from each other in terms of housing shape. The Apple A8 CPU ensures high computing power. This is also available in the iPhone 6 is used. The working memory of 2 GB is four times as big as in the predecessor.

Compared to the 3rd generation, Apple does without an optical audio port in the Apple TV 4. Instead, WLAN-ac is used. The maximum possible resolution is identical to that of the predecessor and is 1,920 x 1,080 pixels (Full HD). However, this is supported at 60 frames per second. Only 30 frames per second were possible in the predecessor. pictures per second is possible. In addition to these useful technical improvements, the manufacturer Apple has also enriched its current box with new useful functions.

Convenient operation and versatile use thanks to apps

The current Apple set-top box is mainly operated by voice input via Siri Remote. Compared to the older Apple Remote, you benefit from a modern touch field. The box even recognizes movements you make with the remote control. The new remote has been sensibly improved and enriched with useful functions. The speech assistant Siri is particularly useful. It allows you to search for specific information by voice, for example. One of the most important new features of the set-top box is the integrated App Store. As with the iPhone or iPad, you will find applications in the store that you can install and use on the small box.

Apple TV comes with several apps preinstalled at the factory. Similar to the Apple iPhone, you can use iTunes to listen to your favourite music tracks or check the current weather. Among the various applications in the App Store are also some games. In combination with a third-party controller, the compact player turns into a small game console. The Siri Remote has a gyroscope and an acceleration sensor and is therefore also suitable as a controller for games.

Commercially available versions of the set-top box

From the manufacturer Apple you can buy the compact player in two different versions. The cheaper model costs around 180 euros and has 32 GB of memory. The other version has 64 GB memory and costs just under 230 euros. Except for the storage space and the different price, the two models are identical. Which version is better for you depends on your individual preferences. If you use the box mainly for videos as well as music and want to install many apps, you should choose the model with the larger storage space. The surcharge is relatively low compared to doubling the memory. Moreover, you can't upgrade the box afterwards, so you should think twice before you decide. If you only use the basic functions of the set-top box, the smaller version will of course be sufficient.

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Is it worthwhile to get started or change?

The manufacturer Apple has enriched the 4th generation of its stylish set-top box with many useful functions. Although the compact player is slightly larger and also heavier than its predecessor, it is also more powerful and versatile. Among the biggest improvements are the integration of the App Store and the modern voice control Siri. Thanks to these, you can conveniently operate most of the box's functions via your voice. The new remote control also offers you useful improvements. In the App Store you will find various apps for all common genres. These allow you to easily adapt your Box to your personal needs. In the blink of an eye, you can turn your Apple TV 4 into a small game console. There are already some games available on the App Store, and they're sure to keep you entertained. That makes the box ideal for kids and teens.

The 4th generation is a successful improvement of its popular predecessor. Except for the higher price, there are no disadvantages or weaknesses compared to the 3rd generation. If you already own a device of the 1st and 2nd generation, then you should definitely consider a change. If the price of the new generation is too high for you and you use the device exclusively for playing movies, then the predecessor is a possible alternative. In this case you will benefit from a lower price, but you will also have to do without the higher frame rate of 60 frames per second.

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