Apple TV 4K Fourth Generation Adds AV1 Hardware Decoding and Dolby Vision Profile 8.1
The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K introduces hardware decoding for the AV1 video codec and support for Dolby Vision Profile 8.1. These upgrades aim to enhance streaming quality and efficiency.
Cupertino, CA – Apple's latest Apple TV 4K, the fourth-generation model, now features hardware-level decoding for the AV1 video codec and includes support for Dolby Vision Profile 8.1, according to the company's official technical specifications.
The inclusion of AV1 hardware decoding, powered by a dedicated decoder within the A19 chip, is designed to improve streaming efficiency. Apple states this will allow for higher quality playback using less bandwidth. While specific applications leveraging AV1 have not yet been announced, content encoded in HEVC or H.264 will continue to function as usual.
Furthermore, the new Apple TV 4K supports Dolby Vision Profile 8.1, a more widely compatible dynamic HDR format. Unlike the third-generation model, which only listed Profile 5, the fourth generation supports both Profile 8.1 and Profile 5. Profile 8.1 builds upon the HDR10 base layer by adding dynamic Dolby Vision metadata, ensuring playback on devices that may not fully support Dolby Vision.
These enhancements signify Apple's continued effort to improve the audio-visual experience for its streaming media device, focusing on both improved performance and broader content compatibility.