Apple has released seven generations of the Apple TV box since 2007
Apple TV comes in seven distinct hardware generations, starting with the original device in 2007 and continuing through the current model released in 2022. Each generation brought different processors, storage options, and video capabilities. The earliest models were smaller and less powerful; the newest ones support 4K video and faster streaming.
Not every generation is still sold or supported. Apple typically keeps the current model and the previous one available for purchase. Older models still work if you own them, but they may not run the latest tvOS software or support newer streaming apps.
Key Takeaways
- Apple TV has seven generations total, released between 2007 and 2022, with each one offering faster processors and better video quality.
- The current model (2022) supports 4K video and the A15 Bionic chip, while older models max out at 1080p or 2K resolution.
- Storage capacity varies by generation, ranging from 8 GB on early models to 64 GB or 128 GB on current versions.
- Older Apple TV models may stop receiving software updates, which can limit access to newer apps and features over time.
The seven Apple TV generations and their release years
First generation (2007) was the original device, small and limited. It had 40 GB or 160 GB hard drives and could only output video at 720p resolution. This model is no longer supported.
Second generation (2010) shrunk the device further and switched to flash storage instead of a hard drive. It came with 8 GB or 16 GB of storage and still maxed out at 720p. Apple discontinued support for this model in 2014.
Third generation (2012) introduced the A5 chip and kept the same small form factor. Storage stayed at 8 GB or 16 GB, and video output remained at 720p. This model received updates until 2016.
Fourth generation (2015) was a major jump. It introduced the tvOS operating system (based on iOS), added support for apps through an App Store, and bumped video to 1080p. Storage was 32 GB or 64 GB. This model still receives some updates but is no longer the current version.
Fifth generation (2017) added 4K video support and the A10X Fusion chip. Storage remained 32 GB or 64 GB. This model brought faster performance and better streaming quality for 4K content.
Sixth generation (2021) kept 4K support but added the A12 Bionic chip and improved Wi-Fi. Storage options were 32 GB or 64 GB. This version is still supported but is no longer the newest model.
Seventh generation (2022) is the current model. It uses the A15 Bionic chip (the same processor in iPhone 13), supports 4K video, and comes with 64 GB or 128 GB of storage. This is the only model Apple actively promotes and the one most apps are optimized for.
Storage and processor differences across generations
Storage capacity tells you how many apps and how much video you can store locally. The first three generations used 8 GB to 160 GB, which was enough for a small number of apps. Starting with the fourth generation, Apple standardized on 32 GB or 64 GB options, which is sufficient for most users because most content streams rather than downloads.
The seventh generation added a 128 GB option, which is useful if you plan to read movies or use the device for gaming. Processor speed matters less for streaming video but affects how quickly the interface responds and how many apps can run at once. The A15 Bionic in the current model is roughly four times faster than the A5 in the third generation.
Video resolution and what each generation supports
The first three generations topped out at 720p, which is standard definition by modern standards. The fourth generation jumped to 1080p (full HD), which is sharp enough for most televisions and streaming content. The fifth, sixth, and seventh generations all support 4K video, which requires a 4K television to see the difference.
If your television is 1080p or smaller, a fourth-generation Apple TV will display video just as well as a newer model. If you have a 4K television, the fifth generation or newer will show noticeably sharper detail on 4K content from services like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+. The difference is most visible on large screens (55 inches and up).
Which older models still receive software updates
Apple stopped updating the first three generations years ago. The fourth generation (2015) still receives occasional security updates but is no longer the focus of new features. The fifth and sixth generations receive regular updates alongside the current seventh generation.
If you own an older model, you can still use it to stream from most major services, but some newer apps may not be available. For example, certain games or recently launched streaming services may only work on the sixth or seventh generation. Checking the App Store on your device will show you which apps are compatible.
How to tell which generation you own
The easiest way is to look at the physical device. The first and second generations are noticeably larger and look like traditional set-top boxes. The third generation is smaller and rectangular. The fourth generation and newer are all small black boxes, but the fourth is slightly thicker than the fifth, sixth, and seventh.
To confirm, go to Settings > About on your Apple TV. The screen will display the model name and tvOS version. You can also check the bottom of the device for a model number, which you can search online to identify the exact generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use an older Apple TV model if I own one?
Yes. Older models will continue to work with most major streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Apple TV+. However, newer apps may not be available, and you will not receive new features. If the device still powers on and connects to your network, it can stream video, though performance will be slower than newer models.
What is the difference between 4K and 1080p on Apple TV?
4K has four times the pixel density of 1080p, making images sharper and more detailed. The difference is noticeable on televisions 55 inches or larger. On smaller screens or from a distance, the difference is minimal. You need both a 4K Apple TV and a 4K television to see 4K content.
Should I buy a used older generation Apple TV or a new one?
If your television is 1080p, a used fourth-generation model works well and costs less. If your television is 4K, buy the current seventh generation or the sixth generation if you find a good price. Older models may stop receiving updates sooner, which limits long-term usability.
Does storage size matter when choosing an Apple TV?
For most users, no. Streaming services store content on their servers, not on your Apple TV. The 32 GB or 64 GB options are enough for dozens of apps. The 128 GB option on the seventh generation is only necessary if you plan to read movies or use the device heavily for gaming.
Will my old Apple TV remote work with a new Apple TV?
Remotes from the fourth generation and newer are compatible with each other. Remotes from the first three generations use a different connection method and will not work with newer models. If you upgrade, you will need the remote that comes with the new device or a compatible third-party remote.