GoKawiilApple TV 4K's new $299 price draws criticism, but matches original 2007 launch cost
Apple has launched its 4th-generation Apple TV 4K at $299, a significant jump from the $129 launch price of the previous 3rd-gen model. Tech commentators broadly agree the device is overpriced for most buyers, especially since Siri AI features are also supported on older 2nd- and 3rd-gen boxes. Journalist Glenn Fleishman compiled pricing data showing the increase far outpaces inflation compared to nearly every past Apple TV model.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The pricing backlash suggests Apple may be banking on new hardware features like built-in microphones and HomePod mini 2 surround sound support to justify the jump, though it risks alienating budget-conscious buyers who can get older models or even full TVs for less. Fleishman's inflation-adjusted comparison also offers useful context: the original 2007 Apple TV cost the equivalent of $491 today, meaning the new price, while steep, is not unprecedented in Apple's history.
- The new Apple TV 4K costs $299, up sharply from the prior model's $129 launch price.
- New features include built-in microphones, an upgraded remote, and HomePod mini 2 surround sound support.
- Inflation-adjusted data shows the original 2007 Apple TV launched at an equivalent of $491, making today's price comparatively modest historically.
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) — If the new $299 model has you balking, the previous-gen Apple TV 4K offers nearly the same core streaming experience—4K HDR, Dolby Atmos, tvOS—at a much more reasonable price. It's the smarter buy the article itself suggests, giving you Apple's ecosystem integration without paying for features most people won't use.”,
See Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Ben Lovejoy, 2026-10-19
Published there as: “Nobody should buy the $299 Apple TV 4K, but it could have been worse”
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