Apple TV has released seven hardware generations since 2007, each with different processors, ports, and streaming capabilities
Apple released its first Apple TV device in 2007 and has updated the hardware six times since then. Each generation brought faster processors, better video quality, or new connection types. The current lineup includes the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, released 2022) as the main model, with the Apple TV HD (2nd generation, released 2015) still sold as a budget option. If you own an older model, knowing which generation you have helps you understand what apps and features it can run.
The easiest way to find your generation is to go to Settings > About on your device. It will display the model name and year. You can also check the back of the box if you still have it, or look up your serial number on Apple's support site.
Key Takeaways
- Apple has released seven generations of Apple TV hardware, with the 4K model (3rd generation) being the current standard and the HD model (2nd generation) available as a lower-cost option.
- Each generation introduced different processors, video formats, and connection types, so older models cannot run all current apps or support newer streaming standards.
- The original Apple TV (2007) and Apple TV 2 (2010) are no longer supported and cannot read new apps, though they may still play content already on them.
- Apple TV 4K models support Dolby Vision, HDR10, and Dolby Atmos audio, while the HD model supports HDR10 but not Dolby Vision.
- You can find your device's generation in Settings > About, which also shows the tvOS version and available storage.
The original Apple TV and second-generation models (2007–2010)
The first Apple TV, released in 2007, was a small box designed to stream movies and TV shows from iTunes to your television. It had a 40 GB hard drive and connected via HDMI and Ethernet. The second generation, released in 2010, was smaller and cheaper but removed the hard drive entirely, relying instead on streaming over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Both of these models are no longer supported by Apple. They cannot read new apps from the App Store, and tvOS updates stopped years ago. If you own one, it may still play content you synced to it before support ended, but you cannot install modern streaming apps like Netflix or Disney+. Most people with these devices have replaced them.
Apple TV 3rd generation (2012) and the shift to apps
The 3rd generation Apple TV, released in 2012, introduced the App Store to Apple TV hardware. This was the first model that could read and install apps directly, rather than relying only on content synced from a computer. It had an A5 processor and supported 1080p video.
This model is also no longer receiving updates. While it may still run some older apps, many modern streaming services have dropped support for it. If you try to read Netflix or other current apps, you may find they are not available for your device. The 3rd generation is now considered obsolete for practical streaming use.
Apple TV 4th generation (2015) and the tvOS era
The 4th generation Apple TV, released in 2015, introduced tvOS (Apple's operating system for television) and the Siri Remote with a touchpad. This model had an A8 processor and supported 4K video output, though it could not actually play 4K content. It came in 32 GB and 64 GB storage options.
Apple stopped signing tvOS updates for the 4th generation in 2019, meaning it no longer receives security patches or new features. Apps that require newer tvOS versions will not install on it. However, many apps released before 2019 still work on this device. If you own a 4th generation Apple TV, you may want to consider upgrading if you use apps that no longer support it.
Apple TV 4K first generation (2017) and second generation (2021)
The first Apple TV 4K, released in 2017, was the first Apple TV that could actually play 4K video content. It had an A10X processor and supported Dolby Vision and HDR10. It came in 32 GB and 64 GB models. The second generation 4K model, released in 2021, upgraded to an A12 Bionic processor and added support for Wi-Fi 6 and Thread (a smart home protocol).
Both of these models still receive tvOS updates and can run current apps. The main difference between them is processor speed and Wi-Fi capability. The 2017 model is slower but still functional for most streaming. The 2021 model is faster and better suited for smart home features if you use HomeKit devices. Both support Dolby Atmos audio and can play high-frame-rate HDR video.
Apple TV 4K third generation (2022) and current models
The current Apple TV 4K, released in 2022, has an A15 Bionic processor (the same chip in the iPhone 13). It supports Wi-Fi 6E, Thread, and comes in 64 GB and 128 GB storage options. It can play Dolby Vision at 60 frames per second and supports Dolby Atmos audio. This is the model Apple currently sells as its main Apple TV device.
The Apple TV HD (2nd generation), released in 2015, is still sold as a lower-cost option. It has an A8 processor, supports 1080p video and HDR10, but does not support 4K or Dolby Vision. It is suitable for smaller rooms or if you do not have a 4K television. Both current models receive regular tvOS updates and can run all current apps.
Video quality and audio features by generation
| Generation | Release Year | Max Video Resolution | Dolby Vision | HDR Support | Dolby Atmos |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV (original) | 2007 | 720p | No | No | No |
| Apple TV 2 | 2010 | 1080p | No | No | No |
| Apple TV 3 | 2012 | 1080p | No | No | No |
| Apple TV 4 | 2015 | 1080p | No | No | No |
| Apple TV 4K (1st gen) | 2017 | 4K | Yes | Yes (HDR10) | Yes |
| Apple TV 4K (2nd gen) | 2021 | 4K | Yes | Yes (HDR10) | Yes |
| Apple TV 4K (3rd gen) | 2022 | 4K | Yes (60fps) | Yes (HDR10) | Yes |
| Apple TV HD (2nd gen) | 2015 | 1080p | No | Yes (HDR10) | No |
How to check which generation you own
To find out which Apple TV generation you have, turn on the device and go to Settings > About. The screen will show the model name (such as "Apple TV 4K" or "Apple TV HD"), the generation number in parentheses, and the tvOS version. Write down the model name and generation so you know which device you own.
If your Apple TV will not turn on or you cannot access the settings menu, check the back of the device or the original box for a model number. You can then search that model number on Apple's support website to find the generation. The serial number is also printed on the back and can be looked up on Apple's site to confirm the exact model and release year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use an Apple TV 3rd generation or 4th generation?
Yes, but with limits. Both models can still play content and run some apps, but many modern streaming services no longer support them. Netflix, Disney+, and other major apps may not be available or may not update on these older devices. If you use only older apps or content you already own, they may still work fine.
What is the difference between Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD?
Apple TV 4K plays video at 4K resolution (3840 × 2160 pixels) and supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Apple TV HD plays at 1080p resolution and supports HDR10 but not Dolby Vision or Dolby Atmos. Choose 4K if you have a 4K television; choose HD if you have a 1080p television or want to spend less.
Do I need to upgrade from a 2017 or 2021 Apple TV 4K?
Not necessarily. Both the 2017 and 2021 models still receive tvOS updates and can run current apps. The 2022 model is faster and supports Wi-Fi 6E and Thread, but if your current device works well for your needs, upgrading is optional. Upgrade only if you need faster performance, want smart home features, or your current device no longer runs the apps you use.
Why does my Apple TV say it cannot read an app?
Older Apple TV models (3rd generation and earlier) no longer receive tvOS updates, so newer apps that require current tvOS versions will not install on them. Check your device's generation in Settings > About. If it is older than 4th generation, the app may straightforward not be compatible with your hardware.
Can I use an original Apple TV from 2007 today?
Not for streaming modern content. The original Apple TV and 2nd generation models are no longer supported and cannot read new apps. They may still play content you synced to them years ago, but they cannot connect to Netflix, Disney+, or other current services. These devices are considered obsolete for practical use.