Review: Apple TV 4K delivers a solid, hands-on experience

As set-top box been around since the Smart TVs were launched and, despite being aimed at an audience that does not want to spend more than it should, there are some proposals that deviate from this pattern. And the main one is the Apple TV 4K.

Capable of playing movies, series and games in 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) with the use of HDR10 - read more here – this beauty is capable of bringing beautiful images to your TV. That is, if it is compatible with both technologies.

Design and construction

As can be expected, the format of the Apple TV 4K it's basically a box with rounded ends. As for its finish, which is dusky, is a plus point for not being a dust magnet. Therefore, it is a very discreet device.

However, it is worth noting that there openings located in the lower part of the body. This type of solution was adopted due to the greater potency found in this version of set-top box. After all, 4K resolution can be a little harsh on the hardware.

Moving on to the connections, we have a important change compared to the previous version of the box: the absence from a USB-C input. So, if you want to connect your MacBook à Apple TV 4K, you can take your horse out of the rain.

Furthermore, it is possible to use a HDMI 2.0 output and from a door Gigabit Ethernet to connect to the internet via cable. That is, the Apple put only the essentials this way. It is also worth mentioning that the HDMI cable itself is not included in the product, only the input itself.

Meanwhile, we also have a “new” version of Siri Remote, remote control made in set glass. In fact, the only update is the “Menu” button, which is now more prominent. That is, they are the same six buttons and touch surface essential for using the box. The essential that already worked very well in previous versions.

Inventory

If using a A10X Fusion processor da Apple , Apple TV 4K certainly has the power to stream content in 4K no choking. Oh, and, it can run games from iTunes masterfully. These games can be stored on your internal memory, which can be from 32 or 64 GB here in Brazil. It seems like little space, but it is worth remembering that you will not use it to store movies and series.

Your system, which goes by the name of tvOS, performs extremely well thanks to the A10X Fusion and, in addition, it is simple and easy to use. However, there is a “problem” with the YouTube: Cannot play videos in 4K or HDR10. This happens because the Apple TV 4K not compatible with VP9 codec used by the Google platform.

Leaving this detail aside, we still have the presence of Crab in Portuguese on 11.3 version of the system. THE assistant personal da Apple , even not essential, ends up being a hand in the wheel when looking for movies and series. Furthermore, there is a wide range of applications available to utilize the firepower that the Apple TV 4K brings. be in Netflix, at Google Play Movies or in itself iTunes, you won't have to look far for programs in 4K.

Extra features and functionality

Compatible with Dolby Digital, sound technology surround property of Dolby, Apple TV 4K delivers an audio experience proportional to the image quality brought by the box.

More importantly, the future presence of the Dolby Atmos, which arrives with tvOS version 12, it should raise the offered audio quality even further. That's because the Dolby Atmos ensures greater immersion when simulating 3D audio.

Finally, we also have the aforementioned HDR10 combined with another technology from Dolby: the Dolby Vision. In short, if you have a TV compatible with these two technologies, it will be jaw dropped when installing the set-top box and start using it.

Apple TV 4K Technical Specifications

• A10X Fusion chip with 64-bit architecture;
• Internal memory of 32 or 64 GB;
• HDMI 2.0 port;
• Wi-Fi 802.11ac with MIMO;
• Gigabit Ethernet;
• Bluetooth 5.0;
• Infrared receiver;
• Integrated power supply;
• Dimensions: 35 mm (height) x 98 mm (width) x 98 mm (thickness);
• Weight: 425 g.

Conclusion

With price official R$1.299,00 at the online store Apple , Apple TV 4K It is a great purchase for those who are already looking for such products. However, although the box Apple can be found for lower prices in stores such as Kaboom! ou Magazine Luiza, your main competitors end up having the advantage comparing their prices.

Still, it is worth noting the practicality and convenience brought by Apple TV 4K and its application library, which is easily explored through Crab. That is, if you are already used to the brand ecosystem or has a TV able to enjoy all this, you will not regret it.

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