Apple to Release AI‑Enabled Apple TV 4K and HomePod Mini

Apple is preparing to launch updated versions of its Apple TV 4K set-top box and HomePod mini smart speaker later this year, according to a report. The new hardware, which has reportedly been complete for months, is expected to debut this fall alongside a major software update featuring a revamped Siri and new Apple Intelligence features.

The primary upgrades for both devices are expected to be internal chip improvements designed to support these new AI capabilities. The current Apple TV 4K, last updated in October 2022, uses an A15 Bionic chip. The new model is widely expected to upgrade to the more powerful A17 Pro chip, which is required to run Apple Intelligence features locally. The HomePod mini, which debuted in October 2020 and received only a color update in 2024, is anticipated to move from its current S5 chip to a newer S-series chip, such as the S9 from recent Apple Watches, to enable support for the enhanced Siri.

Externally, both products are expected to retain designs similar to their current versions. The report indicates the Apple TV enclosure will not change. There is a possibility the Siri Remote for the Apple TV may receive an update, though the changes could...