Netflix informed its subscribers that it would no longer support second- and third-generation Apple TV models starting July 31, 2024. With that, the service is yet another big software to stop supporting these older Apple TV models slowly.
These Apple TVs were announced in 2010 and 2012, respectively. The third-gen model had the A5 chip and supported Full HD streaming. While Apple currently supports the 2015 model or later, it’s impressive how long some streaming services have continued to offer their apps in these older models.
Amazon Prime Video, for example, ended support for these set-top boxes this February. With that, users should upgrade these products or choose other options, such as newer smart TVs, Roku devices, and more.
By the way, this is precisely what Netflix suggests subscribers do after July 31: upgrade to newer gadgets to continue enjoying its streaming service. Even though we don’t like having reliable devices requiring an upgrade, this helps users get the latest features and better streaming.
As we approach WWDC 2024, we wonder if tvOS 18 will eventually drop support for the fourth-generation Apple TV HD, which is almost a decade old. That said, even if Apple discontinues this set-top box, Netflix, YouTube, and many other apps will keep supporting it for a few more years, as they have an important user base.
Should you upgrade to a new set-top-box with Netflix stopping supporting these older Apple TV models?
While it’s true that any newer smart TV can do pretty much everything an Apple TV does, I’m still a hard-core user of my Apple TV. I think Apple offers the best TV experience through its UI, Siri Remote, and various apps.
Usually, you can’t find all the streaming services on a single smart TV, especially if you’re a fan of more niche content. However, you can find them all on Apple TV. The latest model released in 2022 has the A15 Bionic chip, which, to this day, guarantees smooth usability. Smart TVs, after a few years, start to slow down and lose support for third-party apps much quicker.
I also think the Apple TV is the perfect hub for my Apple One subscription thanks to Apple Fitness+ workouts, Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade support, as well as a great offering of third-party apps, thanks to its app store.
That said, while you don’t need a newer Apple TV to watch Netflix, upgrading to a new model could help you enjoy other experiences.
