Apple TV 4K: A Game-Changer for iPhone Users
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The Rise of Smart TV Limitations
While the TV industry has made significant strides, many smart TVs I’ve encountered still struggle with performance.
Many TV platforms, like Android TV and Google TV, are hindered by sluggish and inefficient System on Chips (SoCs), leading to a frustrating user experience. My personal experiences with various smart TVs from Sony and Samsung confirmed this. For instance, Sony’s processors often faltered under the weight of their software, leaving me unable to run more than two applications simultaneously. Samsung performed marginally better, but its complex interface proved cumbersome.
Given these issues, I decided to invest in an Apple TV. As a devoted Apple user, adding this device to my entertainment setup felt like a natural choice. In this review, I’ll share my thoughts on the Apple TV 4K (6th generation from 2021) and the standout features that enhance my viewing experience.
The Standout Features
One of the most impressive aspects of the Apple TV is its AirPlay functionality. Unlike many TVs that come equipped with subpar Wi-Fi chips, the Apple TV boasts Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), resulting in a seamless streaming experience.
The App Store on tvOS is another highlight, featuring a variety of high-quality apps specifically designed for television. This level of quality is often lacking in apps available on Google TV.
Additionally, the Color Balance feature utilizes your iPhone’s FaceID to optimize picture settings, saving you time and effort in finding the best visual setup.
Why You’ll Appreciate It
The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 in the Apple TV 4K supports high-resolution output with an impressive refresh rate and Audio Return Channel (ARC). I’ve successfully connected my device to a Sony SoundBar that supports Dolby Atmos, allowing me to control everything with the Siri Remote.
The Universal Remote feature simplifies the process of managing both the TV and SoundBar, eliminating the hassle of multiple remotes and settings.
HDR support is a delightful bonus, enhancing the brightness of the tvOS interface. On compatible apps like YouTube, you can enjoy high-quality HDR videos, making for a more immersive viewing experience.
Dolby Vision further enriches the visual quality, providing vibrant colors, better contrast, and more depth, assuming your TV supports this format.
Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the controller support, which allows easy pairing of Xbox and PlayStation controllers for an engaging gaming experience, especially with Apple Arcade.
What I Love About the Device
The A12 Bionic chip in the Apple TV 4K ensures smooth streaming and gaming experiences, with some games even supporting 4K resolution—though it’s important to note that it doesn’t match the performance of the M1 chip.
The second-generation Siri Remote is another highlight. It’s user-friendly, lightweight, and functional, equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and an IR transmitter, and has excellent battery life that charges via a lightning port.
Siri integration enhances convenience, allowing me to turn the TV on or off using any Apple device in my home, eliminating the need for the Sony TV remote.
The combination of 60FPS support and HDR at 4K offers stunning visuals, especially in games like Playdead’s INSIDE and Alto’s Odyssey, where the graphics and frame rates are exceptional.
Is It Worth It?
If you own an iPhone and a 4K television, I wholeheartedly recommend the Apple TV. It’s a remarkable device that promises longevity and an enhanced viewing experience.
Images Credit Author
You can purchase the Apple TV 4K (2021 Version) for $199 at Apple. Thank you for taking the time to read my review on Medium.
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