Apple has now updated its Apple TV 4K and added support for Samsung's HDR10+ standard in addition to the existing Dolby Vision standard. Apple has also integrated a more powerful processor and included a USB-C remote control. However, if you want your Apple TV to support the Thread network standard, you will have to opt for the more expensive version with Ethernet and 128 GB of storage this time.
Apple explained the differences between the two Apple TV 4K models on the specs page and the difference in Thread networking was confusing for some users. On the 2021 Apple TV 4K, both the 32GB and 64GB versions had Thread support. As Apple and other companies work to make the Matter standard the new standard for smart devices, one of the features that makes the Apple TV attractive as a smart home device is being split.
Apple TV 4K: This generation has differences
The Apple TV or a HomePod serve as a home hub that allows you to control your smart HomeKit devices from outside your local network. Thread is a power-saving network connection for smart devices that, as a mesh network, enables devices to communicate directly with each other and not just via your WiFi router. With Thread, devices use less energy and have a longer battery life than with normal WiFi support. The Matter standard can run over WiFi, but also works over Thread and benefits from the lower power consumption and reliability of the mesh network. The basic model of the Apple TV with 64 GB storage space and WiFi support costs 169 euros, while the 128 GB version with Ethernet and Thread support costs 189 euros. (Image: Apple)