Apple Readies Refreshed Apple TV Hardware Following tvOS 26 Launch

Apple is poised to unveil a new generation of its Apple TV set-top box in the coming months, according to a Bloomberg report published today, September 20, 2025. The refreshed device will join at least nine other products slated for release between October 2025 and early 2026.

The announcement follows last week’s rollout of tvOS 26 across existing Apple TV 4K models, marking Apple’s continued push to enhance its living-room offerings. Bloomberg’s disclosure highlights Apple’s strategy to accelerate hardware updates and expand its ecosystem beyond the iPhone and Apple Watch.

Upcoming Hardware Lineup

  • Apple TV 4K (next-gen): Arrival as soon as October, featuring an A17 Pro chip and Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7/Bluetooth connectivity.
  • HomePod mini update: Expected to gain improved smart-home integration and spatial audio enhancements.
  • AirTag refresh: Rumored to include extended Ultra Wideband range and improved battery life.
  • iPad Pro refresh: Anticipated M4 series upgrade with mini-LED display improvements.
  • Additional Mac and accessory updates: Encompassing a new Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and smart-home devices.

tvOS 26 Drives Platform Momentum

Apple pushed tvOS 26 globally on September 15, introducing its Liquid Glass interface, personalized profiles, expanded FaceTime support via connected iPhone or iPad, and enhanced AirPlay features. These software refinements set the stage for the forthcoming hardware, ensuring that early adopters benefit from a unified design language and deeper HomeKit integration.

Market Context and Relevance

By accelerating its Apple TV refresh cycle, Apple aims to compete more aggressively with rivals such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and NVIDIA Shield, all of which have shortened update cadences. The A17 Pro’s console-quality graphics performance could also position Apple TV as a more compelling gaming hub when paired with Apple Arcade titles.

As Apple transitions into the holiday season, the refreshed Apple TV and accompanying ecosystem updates are expected to bolster services revenue and fortify the company’s foothold in the increasingly competitive streaming and smart-home markets.

Sources: Bloomberg via MacRumors: “Apple Reportedly Plans to Launch These 10 Products in ‘Coming Months’” MacRumors: tvOS 26 Release Notes and Feature Guide