Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation)

The Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) from Apple is a Thread Border Router. It connects to your home network over Wi-Fi or Ethernet and creates a Thread network for your other devices. Thread devices join and communicate through it, so they need no extra hub.

In a Thread network, the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) works as a Border Router (TBR).

Border Router (TBR)

A Thread Border Router connects your Thread devices to your home network, so no extra hub is needed.

Router (FTD)

A Thread Router stays powered on and relays messages for other devices, extending the range of your network.

End Device (MTD)

A Thread End Device talks to nearby routers and does not relay messages, which saves power and battery life.

Every Thread network needs at least one Thread Border Router. See all border routers →

Matter over Wi-Fi

The Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) from Apple connects to your smart home over Wi-Fi. It joins your existing network directly, without a Thread Border Router or extra hub, and your Matter controller reaches it through your home router.

Wi-Fi Band

Most Matter Wi-Fi devices only connect on 2.4 GHz. If your router combines 2.4 and 5 GHz under one SSID, split them to avoid issues.

Same Network

Your phone, your controller and the device must be on the same network. Guest networks and separate VLANs can block Matter.

Power Use

Wi-Fi uses more power than Thread, so most Matter over Wi-Fi devices run on mains power instead of batteries.

Every Matter device needs a Matter controller, like a smart hub, display or speaker. See all Matter hubs →

Matter over Ethernet

The Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) from Apple connects to your smart home over Ethernet. It plugs straight into your router or network switch, and your Matter controller reaches it over your local network, without a Thread Border Router or extra hub.

Wired and Stable

A network cable gives the most stable connection, with no Wi-Fi interference, range limits or dropouts.

Same Network

Your phone, your controller and the device must be on the same network. Guest networks and separate VLANs can block Matter.

Network Port

Matter over Ethernet devices need a free LAN port on your router or network switch.

Every Matter device needs a Matter controller, like a smart hub, display or speaker. See all Matter hubs →

Matter Version

Matter 1.0

The Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) is certified on Matter 1.0, the first release from October 2022. It covers the core smart home devices: lights, plugs, switches, locks, thermostats, blinds, sensors, TVs and bridges, all running over Wi-Fi, Thread or Ethernet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) need a smart hub?

Yes, but only a Matter controller from your platform. The Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) is a Thread Border Router itself, so it needs no separate Thread hub. Many border routers already work as a Matter controller, like a HomePod mini or Google Nest Hub.

Does the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) work without internet?

Yes. Matter runs on your local network, so the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) keeps working when your internet goes down. Remote access, voice assistants and some Apple cloud features may still need a working connection.

Does the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) work with Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa and Home Assistant?

Yes. The Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) is Matter certified, so it works with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings and Home Assistant, as long as the platform supports Matter Hub, Other, TV devices. Support for newer device types can differ per platform.

Do I need the Apple app to use the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation)?

No. Any Matter hub can set up and control the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) without the Apple app. Some advanced features may not be part of Matter yet, so settings like firmware updates or special modes can still require the Apple app.

How do I set up the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation)?

Open your smart home app, choose to add a device and scan the Matter QR code on the Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) or its packaging. You can also type in the 11-digit Matter code instead. The app guides you through the rest. Keep the code safe, you need it again after a reset.