Apple's streaming box has received its first major update since 2022, with the new Apple TV 4K arriving in Malaysian stores on 13 November 2026 priced at RM1,349. While most smart TVs already come with their own streaming apps, Apple's latest offering brings a little more to the experience, particularly if you're already using other Apple devices around the house.

From a redesigned audio setup to a smarter Siri Remote, the upgrades are less about changing how the box looks and more about making everything around your TV work better together.

In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to tell the new model apart from its predecessor at first glance. It retains the familiar compact black design and fanless build, with a small status light now sitting in the centre.

A Remote That's Easier to Keep Track Of

Apple

We've all had those moments when the show's ready, everyone's settled in, but the remote has somehow disappeared between the sofa cushions. With the new Siri Remote, finding it should be a little easier. It now works with Find My, allowing you to make it play a sound when misplaced.

There's another handy addition for those who prefer a hands-free setup. Three microphones are now built into the Apple TV itself, so you can call out to Siri from the sofa without having to pick up the remote.

Bringing the Cinema Experience Home

One of the more interesting upgrades is in the audio department. The new Apple TV 4K now supports up to four HomePods, compared to two on the previous model. You can place a pair at the front of your living room and another behind the sofa, creating a more immersive listening experience without having to invest in a separate soundbar.

The Apple TV also detects where each speaker is positioned and adjusts the sound levels accordingly, making setup that little bit easier.

As for picture quality, you still get 4K at 60 frames per second, alongside Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos support. It's a familiar viewing experience, but one that can now be paired with a more capable home audio setup.

Under the hood, the new A19 chip brings up to 50% faster performance and twice the graphics power compared to its predecessor, according to Apple. While this makes everyday streaming feel more responsive, the extra graphics power also comes in handy for gaming.

But it isn't just about movie nights and gaming. If you have a compatible smart doorbell, you can also see who's at the gate on your television and speak to them without having to get up.

Siri also makes navigating your Apple TV a little easier. With the microphones built directly into the device, you can ask for a show, search for something to watch or control playback without reaching for the remote. It's a small addition that makes the overall experience feel much more seamless.

Making More of Your Apple Home

If you're already using HomePods around the house, the new Apple TV 4K makes a great addition to your setup. Beyond entertainment, it also works with Apple Home to bring your compatible smart home devices together. From checking who's at the door to managing connected accessories, having everything accessible through your television adds another layer of convenience to everyday use.

It's particularly worth considering if you're upgrading from an Apple TV HD or an earlier 4K model, as the newer chip, added microphone support and expanded HomePod compatibility make for a more capable setup. Those already using the 2021 or 2022 Apple TV 4K will still find plenty of familiar features, with the biggest differences coming down to the improved audio options, performance and hands-free Siri experience.

Making More of Your Apple Home

Of course, a new streaming box calls for a few new shows to add to your watchlist.

For a weekend binge, start with 12 12 12. Anthony Mackie plays a disgraced FBI agent chasing Jamie Dornan's career criminal across Europe, leading up to a bank vault heist beneath Zurich. The story jumps between three timelines: the 12 months of planning, the 12-hour heist and the 12 days that follow. New episodes arrive every Friday until 25 December.

If you're more interested in food and travel, Awkwafina: The Unlikely Cook is another one to look out for. Awkwafina admits she's not much of a cook before travelling across America to explore Asian American food and reconnect with her family's Chinese restaurant history.

For something to watch with the lights off, there's Nocturne, starring Liev Schreiber and Stephen Graham in a mystery involving a missing person and a possible encounter with a serial killer.

The new Apple TV 4K brings a series of thoughtful upgrades to Apple's home entertainment lineup. From a remote that's easier to track down to expanded HomePod support, improved gaming performance and hands-free Siri controls, it's a little more capable while keeping the familiar design we know.