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The Apple TV 4K, not to be confused with the Apple TV+ streaming service, is Apple’s little black streaming box with an iphone chip inside. There’s so much crammed into this tiny thing. Let’s talk about it
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Apple TV 4K:
Chromecast with Google TV:
0:00 Introduction
0:18 Why A Streaming Box?
1:28 Smart Home Features
5:30 UI Smoothness
6:25 Remote
6:48 Integration with Apple Devices
7:45 Not Great Non-Apple Integration
8:14 App Store Experience
10:14 Lack of “Guest” Mode
11:02 Conclusion
As a streaming device, it’s a bit more expensive than a lot of options out there. However it has a lot of features packed in it, it’s more powerful than your average streaming box with an A15 chip inside. So it’s got the processing power of an iphone 13, crammed into this little black box dedicated to just streaming and playing games. The Apple TV, to me, is underrated because it’s so much more than a streaming box. If you have the 128gb version, it has an ethernet port and opens the Apple TV up to be a homekit hub, when there’s a homekit hub device in your home like an apple tv or homepod, you can control homekit devices away from home, and setup automations. And both versions of the Apple TV still let you control your smart home if set up in Homekit. So I like this because if I want to, I can view my cameras around the house from my TV, or get a notification when someone rings the door so I can see if it’s a package or a door to door salesman. I can tell Siri to dim the lights, close the blinds, Whatever. I’m a huge smart home guy so having this functionality whenever I need it comes in clutch, especially when I’m laying in bed, watching TV and don’t want to move.
The worst part about TVs has got to be remotes. The good news is that the Siri remote that comes with the Apple TV remote is pretty decent, with clicky buttons, usb-c port for charging, and built-in find my functionality. So you can search for the remote with your iphone. Don’t like the remote? You can also pair 3rd party remotes to it and use those instead. You can also control the Apple TV from your iphone. The Apple TV really does feel like an extension of your iphone too because a lot of things that we find annoying about streaming devices are fixed thanks to the integration between the iPhone and Apple TV. Want to purchase something on the app store? Instead of typing in a password, use your iphone’s Face or Touch ID. Don’t want to manually type in the search bar using the terrible Apple TV keyboard? You can type it up on your phone instead. Don’t want to walk over to the other side of the bed to grab the remote off your significant other’s nightstand cause they’re sleeping and you don’t want to disturb them because you just know they had a rough week and you don’t want to contribute to it? You can control the Apple TV right from your phone. Want to watch something loud but your significant other is asleep? You can pop in airpods and route the audio from the TV directly to them, so people around you don’t have to hear you watch your spicy dramas or Fast and Furious 32
But being an extension of an iphone and the apple ecosystem has some downsides too. The features I just said, maybe in a little too much detail, are exclusively on iOS. You don’t get access to these features if you own an android device you’re forced to use this terrible keyboard interface on the Apple TV and you can’t “cast” from it because android devices don’t have AirPlay. This device is truly for the Apple users out there.
Let’s talk App Store. Obviously this device syncs with your Apple Account giving you access to all the music, movies and apps you’ve purchased with your Apple Account but it also lets you download TV OS versions of your favorite apps and streaming services that just aren’t available on the default smart TV UI. Just for example. I watch a decent amount of anime, and while everyone knows Crunchyroll is the largest and typically the go-to for most anime, there’s also HIDIVE, which is a little more niche but has some shows Crunchyroll doesn’t have. And on Samsung/LG smart TVs, there’s no app for it with really, only mobile, tablet, game console, and streaming device support. So a streaming box gives you more flexibility there. But the same can’t be said about non-streaming apps on the Apple TV. Besides some of the good mobile game titles available on Apple TV, the Apple TV has a very weak library of apps. And some of the most useful ones aren’t being updated anymore. So I don’t recommend you get this if you were thinking about using it for apps, which is tragic because I could see a really cool use for it, like a dashboard view of your home, upcoming appointments on your calendar, whatever.
More Information:
The Apple 4K TV, often referred to simply as Apple TV 4K, is a powerful streaming device that represents Apple’s entry into the competitive world of digital media players. Here’s an in-depth look at this gadget and what makes it (almost) perfect for streaming enthusiasts.
### Design and Build Quality
The Apple TV 4K sports a sleek, minimalist design that complements any home entertainment system. It features a compact, square shape with rounded edges, a glossy black finish, and a simple, unobtrusive appearance. The remote control has also seen significant improvements, providing a more ergonomic design with a touch-sensitive surface, making it easier to navigate through apps and menus.
### Performance and Picture Quality
One of the standout features of the Apple TV 4K is its support for high dynamic range (HDR) content, including Dolby Vision and HDR10, which delivers stunning visuals with vivid colors and improved contrast. It supports 4K resolution up to 60 frames per second, providing an incredibly smooth viewing experience. The device is powered by the A12 Bionic chip, ensuring rapid app launches, smooth navigation, and the ability to handle demanding graphics with ease.
### User Interface and Accessibility
Apple’s tvOS provides a user-friendly interface that is familiar to users of other Apple products. The main screen features a grid layout of apps, and users can easily navigate using the remote or the Apple TV app on their iPhone or iPad. The integration with Siri allows for voice commands, making it simple to search for content, control playback, and even manage smart home devices. Additionally, the system includes features like screen sharing and AirPlay, allowing users to stream content from their other Apple devices.
### Content and App Availability
The Apple TV 4K gives users access to a wide range of streaming services, including popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Apple TV+. With the Apple TV app, users can not only explore Apple’s own content but also access shows and movies from other subscriptions, all in one place. The inclusion of Apple Arcade provides an additional layer of entertainment for gamers as well.
### Integration with the Apple Ecosystem
For those who are already embedded in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple TV 4K seamlessly integrates with other devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Features like universal search, automatic sign-in for apps, and the ability to use your iPhone as a remote controller enhance the overall user experience. Furthermore, the device supports HomeKit integration, allowing users to control smart home devices easily.
### Shortcomings
While the Apple TV 4K is often praised for its capabilities, it does have some limitations. The price point is higher than many competing streaming devices, which may deter budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, while Apple offers a wide range of content, some streaming services may not be as thoroughly supported as on rival platforms, and the reliance on Apple’s ecosystem might not cater to those using Android or other systems.
### Conclusion
Overall, the Apple TV 4K is an (almost) perfect streaming box that excels in performance, design, and integration for users within the Apple ecosystem. Whether you’re exploring the latest shows, enjoying high-quality movies, or playing games, this streaming device stands out as a top choice for enthusiasts seeking a premium viewing experience. Here lies its brilliance: while it may not cater to every user’s needs, its strengths make it a remarkable option for many.