Apple's 2nd-gen 4K TV box retains HDMI 2.0 at 18Gbps for 4K@60Hz streaming with Dolby Vision and Atmos passthrough, plus improved Gigabit Ethernet for faster app loading. The single USB-C port handles charging only—not external storage—and the optical TOSLINK output routes audio to compatible receivers without HDMI interference. This generation added Thread mesh networking support for HomeKit devices. Below is the complete port breakdown.
4K HDR streaming media player with HDMI 2.1 (eARC, 18 Gbps TMDS), built-in Gigabit Ethernet, Thread border router, and IEC C8 power inlet. Supports HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, and Dolby Atmos via MAT 2.0.
Device Information
- Manufacturer
- Apple
- Release Year
- 2021
- Model Number
- A2169
- Category
- streaming
Available Ports
| Connector | Quantity | Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI 2.1 (Type A - Standard) | 1 | — | Apple-labeled HDMI 2.1 but limited to 18 Gbps TMDS (no FRL). Supports eARC. No 4K120, no VRR, no ALLM, no QMS. HDMI CEC supported. |
| RJ-45 (Gigabit Ethernet) | 1 | — | 10/100/1000BASE-T, 1000 Mbps maximum throughput. All units include Ethernet. |
| IEC C8 (Figure-8 Inlet) | 1 | — | Built-in universal AC power supply (100–240V, 50/60Hz). Uses detachable C7 figure-8 cord. |
Notes & Compatibility
HDMI labeled 2.1 but hardware-limited to 18 Gbps TMDS bandwidth (HDMI 2.0 equivalent). Supports eARC only — no 4K120, no VRR, no ALLM, no QMS, no FRL 48 Gbps. HDMI CEC supported. All units include Gigabit Ethernet (no Wi-Fi-only variant). Thread border router for HomeKit/Matter. HDR10, Dolby Vision (Profile 5), HLG — no HDR10+. Dolby Atmos via MAT 2.0 — no lossless TrueHD bitstreaming. Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0. Discontinued October 2022.
