Older Apple TV models also get Siri AI
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| Source: Mastodon | Original article
Apple is rolling out Siri AI updates to several older Apple TV models, extending the voice assistant to devices that previously lacked it.
Apple has announced that Siri’s generative‑AI assistant will be rolled out to older Apple TV 4K models, extending the feature beyond the brand‑new fourth‑generation set unveiled on October 13. The update reaches back to the second‑generation 4K box released in 2021, and is being offered as a beta that runs on the existing hardware provided the device meets Apple’s language, regional, software and paired‑device criteria.
The expansion hinges on the Siri Remote, which now ships separately and includes far‑field microphones. Users of legacy Apple TV 4K units can purchase the new remote and enable Siri AI without replacing their streaming box. The latest Apple TV 4K itself ships with an A19 chip, built‑in microphones and a $299 price tag, positioning it as the flagship for voice‑first content discovery.
Why it matters is twofold. First, Apple is leveraging its existing TV hardware to broaden the reach of its AI ecosystem, reinforcing the value proposition of its devices without forcing a full hardware upgrade. Second, the move dovetails with Apple’s broader strategy of tying AI services to a “registered personal device” network—a theme we highlighted on October 13 when reporting that HomeView’s facial‑recognition feature requires an Apple Intelligence‑enabled device on the same Wi‑Fi.
What to watch next includes the timeline for the beta rollout, availability and pricing of the new Siri Remote, and any firmware updates that may unlock additional languages or regions. Observers will also be keen to see whether Apple extends the same AI functionality to the Apple TV HD line or other legacy set‑top boxes, and how the broader market responds to a voice‑first streaming experience on older hardware.
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