The Apple TV is one of those Apple devices that no one really needs, especially in 2026, but it makes the experience of watching TV that much better. Still owning the Apple TV 3, a first generation Apple TV 4K, and the 2022 Apple TV 4K, I can say that all of these models last quite a long time, but I’m not the only one who supports this, as Apple TV owners on Reddit say that these set-top boxes can last a good 10 years.
In the end, it all depends on what you want. For example, the Apple TV 3 was released in 2012. It lost YouTube support in 2021, Apple removed AirPlay features for DRM-compatible content in 2022, and Netflix was still available on the set-top box until 2024. With these impressive numbers, it’s easy to say that even though it wasn’t 4K, it survived long before losing compatibility with almost every streaming platform available.
However, when we think about the first Apple TV 4K, released in 2017, Apple not only still offers software updates through tvOS, but it is also available with all major streaming services and apps. Even though it has become much slower than a decade ago, this device can last beyond 10 years of support, which is a pretty impressive milestone, especially for modern technology.
Lasting a long time doesn’t mean you have to keep it forever
José Adorno/BGR
The longevity of the Apple TV also depends on the user, just like a regular TV. For example, when you buy a new TV, usually the one in the living room goes in the bedroom, and the one in your bedroom goes in the basement or your kid’s room, right? With Apple TV, it’s the same. I had my 3rd generation Apple TV 4K in my living room with my Samsung NeoQLED 8K, the first generation Apple TV 4K was in my bedroom connected to XGIMI’s Horizon Max, and the long-retired Apple TV 3 was on a regular TV at my mom’s house for AirPlay functionality and some streaming services.
That said, while keeping the same Apple TV as the main star of the living room would have been a bad idea, swapping it out over the years for other, older technology extends its lifespan because it still works the way it’s supposed to: easy access to streaming services, nice user interface, compatibility with Apple devices, and more.
However, to keep it running like day one, you may need to get a new model. For example, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently commented that the latest Apple TV 4K feels a bit slower in 2026. He’s right: performance isn’t the same, and tvOS 26 is demanding software. This doesn’t mean you should give away your Apple TV 4K, but it makes sense that the device isn’t what it used to be.
Rumors speak of a new Apple TV 4K
José Adorno/BGR
If you’re planning to upgrade your Apple TV in 2026 or getting one for the first time, I highly recommend waiting a little longer. Apple has a big update in store, and this set-top box is expected to get support for Apple Intelligence and the all-new Siri which is expected to be announced along with iOS 27, an all-new processor, more RAM and Apple’s own connectivity chip.
Unlike the current generation, this will be the only Apple TV that supports Apple Intelligence. If the rumors prove true, interacting with Siri on the new Apple TV could be a revolutionary experience. While previously I was getting a new Apple TV for upgraded specs, this one could make the set-top box ideal for playing games and enjoying a smooth TV experience while serving as a hub for enjoying Apple services like music, TV, and Fitness+. There’s even a rumor that Apple might tweak the Siri Remote (again).
Even though the exterior of the product is expected to remain the same, this Apple TV should follow in the footsteps of previous models and last for years to come. That means the next time you need to upgrade an Apple TV could be in 2036. Not bad.
