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Apple testing two new features for upgraded Apple TV 4K, per report
Apple will hold its “Welcome home” product launch on Tuesday, with the headlining announcement expected to be the new “HomeView” smart display. A new Apple TV 4K is also on the docket for this week, and Apple has tested two new features for it: microphones and an upgraded Siri Remote.
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In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman reports that Apple has tested adding built-in microphones to the Apple TV for Siri interactions. Currently, Apple TV users have to speak into the Siri Remote or a HomePod to interact with Siri on Apple TV.
The company has also tested a new Siri Remote with a built-in speaker. While the current Siri Remote offers a very basic “Find” feature, a built-in speaker would be a huge upgrade.
Apple has also tested two features for the new Apple TV, its first update in years: built-in microphones that would let users shout Siri commands at the set-top box without needing to speak into the remote or a paired HomePod, and a refreshed remote with a speaker to make it easier to find between couch cushions.
While the new HomeView smart display won’t ship until mid-November, Gurman expects the new Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini to be available on October 30.
Check out our full preview for all the details on the new Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini, and smart display expected to be announced on October 13.
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