Apple TV 4K Gets a Smarter Siri Remote, But Its Best Feature Needs a Newer iPhone
Apple’s latest Apple TV 4K brings more than just a performance upgrade. Along with a faster processor and Wi-Fi 7 support, the fourth-generation streaming box arrives with an updated Siri Remote that adds a feature many users have wanted for years: easier remote tracking.
The new Siri Remote looks almost identical to the previous aluminum model, so don’t expect a major visual redesign. The real change is inside. Apple has added Precision Finding support, allowing users to locate the remote through the Find My app on iPhone.
This feature works in a similar way to Apple’s item-tracking accessories. If the Siri Remote slips between sofa cushions, ends up under a blanket, or gets left in another room, a compatible iPhone can guide you toward it by showing the direction and distance. For anyone who regularly misplaces their TV remote, this could be one of the most useful upgrades to Apple’s home entertainment setup.
However, there is an important catch. Precision Finding for the new Siri Remote requires a very recent iPhone. According to Apple’s compatibility details, users need at least an iPhone 17, iPhone Air, or iPhone Duo. The iPhone 17e is not supported.
That limitation may surprise some Apple users, especially since recent iPhone generations already include advanced wireless positioning hardware. One possible reason is that the new Siri Remote may rely on Bluetooth 6 for its precise location feature rather than ultra-wideband technology. Bluetooth 6 support only begins with the iPhone 17 lineup, which could explain why older devices are excluded.
The good news is that users with older iPhones are not completely left out. Even without Precision Finding, the Siri Remote can still play a sound through its built-in speaker, making it easier to track down when it is nearby. It may not offer the same turn-by-turn style guidance, but it should still help in everyday situations.
Apple is also selling the new Siri Remote separately for $59 through its online store. It is compatible with Apple TV HD as well as every Apple TV 4K model starting from the first generation, making it a practical upgrade for users who are happy with their current Apple TV box but want the convenience of remote tracking.
The new Apple TV 4K may come at a higher price than its predecessor, but Apple is clearly aiming to make the device more powerful and more convenient. With Wi-Fi 7, a stronger processor, and a smarter Siri Remote, the latest model is designed for users who want a faster and more polished streaming experience.
Still, the remote’s most exciting feature comes with a clear condition: to get the full Precision Finding experience, you will need one of Apple’s newest iPhones.
