Apple has released seven generations of Apple TV hardware since 2007

Apple TV comes in two product lines that operate differently. The Apple TV box (the device you connect to your TV) has gone through seven generations from 2007 to 2022. The Apple TV app, which runs on iPhones, iPads, Macs, and smart TVs from other manufacturers, is separate software that updates independently.

If you own a physical Apple TV device, knowing which generation you have matters because older models cannot run current software or access newer features. The generation determines what apps work, what video formats it supports, and whether it can handle 4K video.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple released seven generations of the Apple TV box between 2007 and 2022, with major changes in processing power and video support between each.
  • The first three generations (2007–2012) used a remote control and played video through iTunes; the fourth generation (2015) introduced the touchpad remote and tvOS operating system.
  • The fifth generation (2017) and sixth generation (2021) added 4K support and faster processors, while the seventh generation (2022) added support for high frame rate 4K video.
  • You can find your Apple TV generation by checking Settings > About on the device itself, or by looking at the model number on the bottom of the box.

The first three generations: iTunes-based streaming (2007–2012)

The original Apple TV (2007) was a small box that synced video, music, and photos from your computer through iTunes. It had a hard drive inside and a straightforward remote control. This first generation could only play video files that iTunes recognized—mainly MP4 and MOV formats.

The second generation (2010) removed the hard drive and switched to streaming from your computer instead of storing files on the device. It was smaller and cheaper than the first generation. The third generation (2012) added support for 1080p video and AirPlay, which let you stream video wirelessly from an iPhone or iPad to your TV.

All three of these generations are now obsolete. Apple stopped supporting them years ago, and they cannot run modern apps or stream from current services like Netflix or Disney+.

The fourth generation: The touchpad remote and tvOS (2015)

The fourth generation Apple TV (2015) was a complete redesign. It introduced tvOS, Apple's operating system built specifically for television. Instead of syncing with iTunes on a computer, it worked like an iPad—you downloaded apps directly onto the device.

The remote changed from a straightforward clicker to a touchpad remote with motion controls. This let you swipe to navigate menus and use gestures to control games. The device had an A8 processor (the same chip in the iPhone 6) and 32 GB or 64 GB of storage.

The fourth generation supported 1080p video only, not 4K. It was the first Apple TV that felt like a modern streaming device, but it cannot run the latest tvOS versions released after 2019.

The fifth generation: 4K video support (2017)

The fifth generation Apple TV (2017) added support for 4K video at 60 frames per second, along with HDR (high dynamic range) for better color and contrast. It used an A10X processor, which was significantly faster than the fourth generation's A8 chip. Storage options were 32 GB or 64 GB.

The remote remained largely the same as the fourth generation, though the processor upgrade made navigation and app performance noticeably smoother. This generation can still run current tvOS versions, though Apple may stop supporting it within the next few years.

The sixth generation: Faster processor and color balance (2021)

The sixth generation Apple TV (2021) upgraded to an A12 Bionic processor and added support for color-balanced video through a feature called color-balanced audio. It maintained 4K video support at 60 frames per second and came with 32 GB or 64 GB of storage.

The main difference from the fifth generation was processing speed and improved performance with demanding apps. The remote design stayed the same. This generation is currently supported and receives regular tvOS updates.

The seventh generation: High frame rate 4K (2022)

The seventh generation Apple TV (2022) is the current model. It uses an A15 Bionic processor and added support for 4K video at 120 frames per second, which is useful for sports and fast-action content on compatible TVs. It comes with 64 GB or 128 GB of storage.

This generation also introduced a redesigned remote with a clickpad instead of a touchpad, making it easier to navigate menus with physical buttons. It supports the latest tvOS features and will receive updates for several years.

How to find which generation you own

The easiest way to identify your Apple TV is to look at the physical device itself. On the bottom or back of the box, you will find a model number that starts with "A" followed by four digits (for example, A1625). You can also check inside the device by going to Settings > About on your Apple TV, which displays the model number and sometimes the generation name.

Once you have the model number, you can search Apple's support website to match it to a specific generation. The model number is more reliable than the device's appearance, since some generations look similar from the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use an older Apple TV from 2010 or 2012?

Technically yes, but it will not work with modern streaming services. These devices cannot run current apps, and Apple stopped supporting them over a decade ago. They can still play video files from a computer through iTunes if you have an older Mac or PC running compatible software, but this is not practical for most people.

What is the difference between Apple TV and the Apple TV app?

Apple TV is the physical box you plug into your television. The Apple TV app is software that runs on iPhones, iPads, Macs, Samsung TVs, LG TVs, and other devices. You do not need to own an Apple TV box to use the Apple TV app. The app is separate and updates independently from the hardware.

Does the fifth generation Apple TV still work with current apps?

Yes, the fifth generation (2017) still receives tvOS updates and works with most current apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+. However, Apple may stop supporting it within the next few years as they focus on newer models. Check the App Store on your device to see if specific apps still work.

Is the seventh generation worth buying if I have a fifth generation?

The main upgrades are processing speed and support for 4K at 120 frames per second. If you have a 4K TV and watch sports or fast-action content, the seventh generation offers a noticeable improvement. If you watch mostly standard streaming content, the fifth generation still works well.

How do I know if my TV supports 4K video from Apple TV?

Check your TV's manual or settings menu for 4K or Ultra HD support. Most TVs made after 2015 support 4K, but not all. You also need an HDMI 2.0 cable or newer to carry 4K video from the Apple TV to your TV. If your TV does not support 4K, a fifth, sixth, or seventh generation Apple TV will still work—it just displays in 1080p instead.