You said it best at the beginning and I agree completely: I use AppleTV for Zwift over the PC because it ALWAYS works. I never have problems with virtual bike apps on AppleTV compared to my laptop.
According to last Zwift version Apple TV 1.13.2 (1.0.71228) (June 2 2021) : "Added support for high resolution graphics on Apple TV (2021 version)" : new test to come ?
As always a great review and content. I have the old version and trying to move around Zwift to select worlds, routes and so on is a game of chance with the current remote!
A bit of a warning: Zwift hasn't supported directional navigation for years now. The Apple TV could already work with 3rd party remotes and Xbox controllers but Zwift still wouldn't let you use directional arrows. It works flawlessly with Apple's apps (they're pushing it as a gaming system after all) and literally every other third party app but Zwift have been dragging their heels for years now.
I've been waiting for a better Apple TV4k for a while now but it appears the new one is only marginally better, I don't think the new CPU has enough extra to give the better experience we all want in Zwift. If you look at it in PC terms you need almost twice the horsepower to go up a level in graphics. I almost rushed out to get the new one, glad they sold out so fast now! Thanks
Thanks for the dive into it. #1 thing for me on a new unit is number of bluetooth - I can live with the current video. Will be outfitting a new workout area later this year and ideally I just have a box like this rather than a linked computer of some type - I like simplicity.
Thanks for this! After experiencing a big bug on my old Apple TV with Zwift yesterday (would NOT start), I will wait till Zwift fixes this and improves on the items you've pointed out! Going to move old Apple TV to guest room afterwards and update to this model in my pain cave.
Indeed, looks like that bug was a wonky one. In case you didn't see the threads on the Zwift forums, in short, disable the Dolby audio support and you'll be good to go.
The iPhone remote app has had an option to enable the precise direction controls for.. a long time. But Zwift has never implemented comparability. Here’s hoping.. I hate navigating controls in selecting training programs with the swipe remote sooo much..
To be honest Zwift on (my) PC's just work too. I had not any major issues since... 2015 I think. And it became even better when Windows 10 figured out Bluetooth native support. I get the charm of super small, cheap and quite portable device which ATV is. I just prefer my Zwift to be much more smooth and pretty ;)
Yeah, I really wish I could say the same, but it's impressive how many bugs float across the PC/Mac variants. Heck, my Windows box (which is only a year old) refuses to pair BT in Zwift for some unknown reason. I could spend hours/days troubleshooting why, but I've given up on it. I just stick an ANT+ adapter in it.
@@Dcrainmaker The M1 MBP has been flawless connecting to Zwift’s either via BT or ANT+. I mostly use ANT+ since I give the more solid connection to TrainerRoad via Bluetooth.
@@Dcrainmaker As of BT there is some quite common problem with Visual C++ on some W10 machines. Installing this usually solves it: www.techpowerup.com/download/visual-c-redistributable-runtime-package-all-in-one/
Any news on this or are the graphics still not as good as the original 4K version . Hard to find any updated videos on the graphics and how they compare
Hi DC Rainmaker, is the screen/image quality better now for the new 4K '21 Apple TV compared to the old one? That would give me a excuse for buying a new one!
I loved your hint at lots of new sports tech in the next 7-12 days!!! 12 days puts us at June 2, 🤔 I think some FCC applications expiry on the 2nd as well!! Also saw you logging some k’s last night!!
Hey Ray, been looking to see if you have anything for the new 2023 Apple TV version. Can’t find anything for Zwift. Want to get Apple TV (my first) next month but want to know more about it or if better to get this 2021 or 2022. Any updates?
Any updates on whether things are already as high end as they'll get on the 2021 4K AppleTV? Wondering if Zwift can squeeze any more out of it in terms of graphic profile
Wonder if they stalled the release of the fabled, perhaps vapourware, ATV UI update pending release of the new hardware. I’ve got the 4K 2017 and with better BT support and maybe a gfx uplift in terms of quality and speed, I’d be tempted but not right now.
They said back a few mins ago (CEO, Eric Min), that basically they stopped that because they realized they had some more substantial backend type issues that they needed to sort through first, before changing the UI. In other words, their underwear had holes in it, and it was in more dire shape than a pair of new heals.
I am kinda late to ZWIFT and Apple TV meaning today I'm getting 2021 Apple TV 4K 64GB - Black (2nd generation) , so as of May 1st 2023 will it pick up 4 sensors ?
@@trannel73 Haha... Literally, one of my two iPad's is from 2014. Seriously. The other one is from 2016...I bought it when Zwift announced iPad support: www.dcrainmaker.com/2016/08/zwift-ios-app-version.html
Just messing with you 😅🙈 sorry. Currently in full Apple silicon M1 hype and traded in my old iPad Air 2 from 2014 (maybe you have this one as well). Will be a blast to feel the speed for TH-cam convenience when purchasing the new iPad Pro 12.9” 🏎 watching Tour de France on the terrace let’s goooooo! 🤩
@@trannel73 Hahaha...yeah, I have an M1 Mac Mini at the office (you can just barely see it in this video below some monitors) that I use for a few random tasks. And I've had my finger on the buy button a few times for one of the new M1 iMac's to use at home for quicker rendering when I need to get something out (like last night...and two nights prior). But now the timelines here are 6 weeks for that, so I'll wait to see what happens at WWDC.
thanks for the vid. I gather that it is NOT worth upgrading from older ATV 4K. But, if NOT currently a ATV owner, is it practical to purchase 2021 ATV 4K and patiently wait for Zwift to support new hardware spec? OR, is it more sensible to buy 2017 4K model at a bargain price? Thanks.
Based on the fact that other training apps can only support 2 sensors in addition to the remote, the limit is in tvOS. I have read (unfortunately, I can’t find the link) that the limit is artificial and the hardware can support the same number of connections as iOS devices.
The 'shadow problem' on the ATV 4K has been solved (for quite a while now). I think the graphics are really good for such a 'cheap' device but I can't compare with the older versions of ATV.
They make a lot sense if your TV doesn’t have a good OS (a lot of older TVs for example and probably a lot of new ones). Everything can be controlled via the remote included and they integrate extremely well with other Apple devices. e.g. swipe down from the top right on an iPhone and there is an Apple TV remote and screen mirroring options
Am i the only one with lag and bad picture quality on the new ATV? The first version worked very well. But the version is not doing to good? Any ideas?
Normally yes, it will. Regardless of the output resolution, the 4K versions just render better games than the non-4K version. This has been the case for the last four years. However, at 720p output, you might not really notice some of that.
Great video, Ray! I have one question that hasn't been covered so far by anybody: At home not only me but also my wife and my daughters would like to use zwift. Since they do not want to have road bikes and I am taller than they are, there is currently no way... Could anybody recommend a "stationary" bike for zwift that solves this problem?
That's a tough one. The best of the bunch these days is the Wahoo KICKR Bike, but that costs $3,500! Eeks! You've then got the Stages SB20, Tacx NEO Bike, and Wattbike ATOM that are all solid options but at a lesser price point.
I have a stages sb20. Highly adjustable. Takes only a couple minutes to adjust seat x axis , seat y axis, handle bar x axis and handle bar y axis. Handle bar pitch and seat pitch requires an Allen wrench though. Although I don’t adjust those once fixed. Wife uses it for her peloton classss and I use zwift. Happy to spend the 3k it cost and would do it again
This is an issue I face as well. I have Kickr Snap but I rarely use it because it's not practical for our home gym, as my gf also likes to ride on Zwift. A bit spendy at 900, but we have a Concept 2 ERG bike that connects without wires and is quickly adjustable. It's been rock solid with zwift and we love it. Low tech for the most part, but I love that part since too much tech makes for a headache (we learned this the hard way with our Bowflex treadmill that has to perform an update once a week and takes 20 minutes). Anyway, we have over 6k miles on the thing in a little over a year and are considering a second one for our cottage.
How can you say the previous remote functions perfectly ! Zwift needs to work on the interface for Apple TV on the very known issue of erratic selection with the remote. Looks like the new remote isn't better at all.
I'm not sure where I said the previous remote works perfectly. I simply said that the mini-swipe section within the new remote works within Zwift to the same level the previous remote did. But I've never said the previous remote is great, in fact, I literally made an entire video about how bad it is within Zwift (and in general).
@@Dcrainmaker You mention that Apple TV works great with Zwift. However, the remote navigation is part of the experience - very annoying. We would have hoped that the new remote would improved a lot the experience - which isn't the case, unfortunately. Whether it is the Zwift interface or the remote itself, maybe both are problematic ?
Ray, Thanks for this and apologies if my question has come up recently. Just bought the new remote presuming that they would have the directional pad functionality figured out by now, but no. So, right, this remote is worse than the old one for Zwift. Do you have any insight into when they will do the necessary programming? I am driven mad by the inability to maneuver around with either remote.
I’ve always just mirrored my iPhone on ATV. It is the best of both worlds. Easy light weight setup and I can have more than 2 Bluetooth connections and navigation is on the phone. I think Zwift’s companionship app is useless. No reason to upgrade the ATV.
Hey can you help please? Do I mirror zwift from my phone with airplay onto my 4K TV or unpack the new Apple TV 4K TV and operate zwift directly through that? 🙏
My Question is the following: 1. Can we expect anything to change after Zwift has assessed the device? As DCR pointed out, right now Apple TV 2021 is even worse than its predecessor 2. What about 4K support (not profiles), if Apple TV 2021 is connected to a 4K TV will it output 4K resolution?
1) I suspect we'll see the buttons on the remote get fixed super quick, and then I suspect we'll see them tweak the profile slightly pretty quickly - hopefully to get the shadows back. 2) Zwift has never supported 4K on any Apple TV units, but, you can still output in 4K, the game just isn't rendered in 4K. For example, I was outputting in 4K/30-SDR, but the game is only rendered in 1080p. I haven't heard any plans to change that.
A12 has known capabilities, one can look at A12 (or later) iPhones or iPads. Even a 2020 iPad Pro I have with much more powerful processor did not get assigned any profile other than basic.
True, but as others have pointed out, it's actually a bit more complex than just the A10/A12/etc chip (such as being permanently connected to power, giving it more power), which is one of the things Apple tried (mostly successfully) to illustrate in their keynote.
Bought one separately for my 2017 due to family members really struggling with the old one. Works as expected, auto pairs straight from the box. I have the case Ray recommends for the old one and actually quite like it still, but family much happier with the new one!
No doubt the new 2021 ATV will align with Zwift and other apps. No doubt. If you’re looking for a new ATV definitely buy the new one. Even for just having the new remote. The 4 buttons will end up working with Zwift, those up/down/left/right will make navigating a blessing. I was a huge fan of using my ATV 4K as my pain cave setup. I’ve transitioned to an M1 MBP only because I’m running Zwift and TrainerRoad at the same time. It’s been flawless after getting the Bluetooth and ANT+ all dialed, and graphics on my 4K tv is better. It’s not a simple setup like the ATV, and much more costly, but the specific setup I was looking for is working great.
2 is usually enough. And if you need more because your setup is particular, you can add them using the Companion app as a bridge. Most people have their smart trainer and HRM on the two channels. The trainer provide control, cadence and power on one channel. HRM use the other.
My 2016 Alienware alpha is just becoming painful to run Zwift on, I really don’t want to spend 1000s on something that’s only used for Zwift so thanks for this vid ray. Zwift does look poor after playing glorious ray traced Ratchet and clank on the ps5 tho lol
@@Dcrainmaker agreed. I’m an early adopter for most things but these days the initial firmware and software support is half baked on release so it’s ok to chill for a bit
Yeah, I think if we fast forward even just a few weeks, many of these initial concerns will be sorted out in Zwift updates. Ultimately, I wouldn't go out and buy an old one for really any reason. I'd either wait a few weeks, or buy the new one and presume the minor quirks will get sorted.
In this case it was the Rode Wireless Go 2, with a separate Lav mic. There's something up with the Lav mic connection though causing a slight pop every once in a while. I've gotta troubleshoot it.
Regarding the number of concurrent BT connections, I don’t think it’s a hardware issue as I was just able to connect three Bluetooth game controllers and a Bluetooth keyboard to my previous Gen Apple TV 4K. So my guess is it’s a Zwift issue unless Apple only allows multiple connections for certain types of hardware. For instance, it won’t let me connect 2 Bluetooth keyboards at the same time. When attempting to connect a 2nd Bluetooth controller while I already had one connected along with some Bluetooth headphones I got a popup message that said “Only one game controller can be used with Bluetooth audio. To connect this game controller, change your audio output to HDMI”.
Yeah, historically it’s always been an Apple limitation that impacted all apps. Keep in mind that technically BT smart could be separate from legacy BT, or, Apple just randomly got around to allowing more connections - which would be huge.
@@Dcrainmaker According to this support article from Apple (support.apple.com/en-us/HT205302) you can connect up to 4 MFi Bluetooth controllers which should allow for local multiplayer gaming. Hopefully this means Zwift can support additional Bluetooth sensors without resorting to the Companion app.
@@mikemccarthy6851 Interesting. All of those accessory types shown are legacy (full) Bluetooth, as opposed to Bluetooth Smart (Low Energy). From a practical standpoint, there's no reason why there would be a limitation on BLE but not full BT. But of course, practically doesn't just mean a random software limitation because Apple didn't see a use-case (which, is what I suspect we're running up against).
@@mikemccarthy6851 "The page you're looking for can't be found." - is there something missing in the page address? (ETA: Figured it out - you configured the parenthesis at the end as part of the URL! ) - should be support.apple.com/en-us/HT205302
@@Dcrainmaker It looks garbage compared to a PC for a little bit more; even with the current graphics card issues... (£70 PC; i3 haswell, 8gb ram, ssd ebay) plus graphics card 1050ti (or 1030 untill they get cheaper again.)
@@Dcrainmaker Plenty of us are and perhaps more should for VFM rather than accepting a closed ecosystem to spoon feed them a potato branded 4k that is far from that!
@@robiedoo00 Sure, but that's not the point. I can build a system too - but you can't do it for $179 from new parts and have it work perfectly just about every time. The 1050ti is 2x that alone, even a 1030 is $100 by itself. Let alone all the other parts you've gotta buy. C'mon, I literally built datacenters for two decades - I'm very well aware of what you can and can't build.
I can save you 9 minutes: Zwift does not have a profile yet for the 2021 Apple TV - so we don't yet know if it's actually better or not. Stay tuned a month or two to find out.
If you are one of those weird people who do not own a smartphone and want to get into Zwifting what is the easiest way to do that? I will buy a Wahoo Kickr. I don't mind spending money.
The reason I came in with the negative here is because you’re talking about a negative. The negative is that they haven’t updated for the new unit yet. You could have cut to yes buy the new one today and wait for update.
There’s a very simple rule in tech: Never buy tech based on promises or un-implemented features. And when it comes to Zwift specifically, that rule is even more important.
The new Apple TV is just disappointing in terms of processor. The old 4K got the then iPad Pros cpu a10x. now it’s just a a12 which performs worse in some benchmarks compared to the a10x. Compared to the current iPhone cpu models it’s a joke, not even mentioning the m1 chip. I was so looking forward to replacing my desktop for Zwift…guess it won’t happen :)
I use my old PC (Skylake, 2015?) with ANT+ receptor and it just works fine. Screen is my old 52" TV in HDTV. Better details than ATV. Going to stick with that.
Apple TV with M1 chip? Hold your horses, Ray 😅 this thing renders 4K footage in second, and would bump up the Apple TV price by 100-200$ I believe. So maybe the A12 might be good for our wallets 🙂
Except some of us would gladly pay that extra $100-200 for an M1 AppleTV. I, for one, plan on skipping this new ATV and getting an M1 Mac Mini instead.
![Zwift on Apple TV: Everything you need to know [4K]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zaPsZVFAzH0/mqdefault.jpg)
Super useful ! So basically leaving my Zwift set up as is, thanks a million.
Can't wait for some info on Zwift and similars on the just announced new AppleTV.
You said it best at the beginning and I agree completely: I use AppleTV for Zwift over the PC because it ALWAYS works. I never have problems with virtual bike apps on AppleTV compared to my laptop.
According to last Zwift version Apple TV 1.13.2 (1.0.71228) (June 2 2021) : "Added support for high resolution graphics on Apple TV (2021 version)" : new test to come ?
I like Ray’s tiny little CRT tv on the box. It’s cute.
🧐
Like totally fetch !
As always a great review and content. I have the old version and trying to move around Zwift to select worlds, routes and so on is a game of chance with the current remote!
A bit of a warning: Zwift hasn't supported directional navigation for years now. The Apple TV could already work with 3rd party remotes and Xbox controllers but Zwift still wouldn't let you use directional arrows. It works flawlessly with Apple's apps (they're pushing it as a gaming system after all) and literally every other third party app but Zwift have been dragging their heels for years now.
I've been waiting for a better Apple TV4k for a while now but it appears the new one is only marginally better, I don't think the new CPU has enough extra to give the better experience we all want in Zwift. If you look at it in PC terms you need almost twice the horsepower to go up a level in graphics. I almost rushed out to get the new one, glad they sold out so fast now! Thanks
Thanks for the dive into it. #1 thing for me on a new unit is number of bluetooth - I can live with the current video. Will be outfitting a new workout area later this year and ideally I just have a box like this rather than a linked computer of some type - I like simplicity.
Yup, hopefully they can dig into that and see what's if perhaps there's room to expand.
Thanks for this! After experiencing a big bug on my old Apple TV with Zwift yesterday (would NOT start), I will wait till Zwift fixes this and improves on the items you've pointed out! Going to move old Apple TV to guest room afterwards and update to this model in my pain cave.
Indeed, looks like that bug was a wonky one. In case you didn't see the threads on the Zwift forums, in short, disable the Dolby audio support and you'll be good to go.
Any updates about this? Is the quality of the new Apple TV already increased at Zwift?
The iPhone remote app has had an option to enable the precise direction controls for.. a long time. But Zwift has never implemented comparability. Here’s hoping.. I hate navigating controls in selecting training programs with the swipe remote sooo much..
Can you make an update video on this, 6 month after its release?
I love that this segment is being covered in the tech space. Great great stuff!!
Just subbed 👌🏾
To be honest Zwift on (my) PC's just work too. I had not any major issues since... 2015 I think. And it became even better when Windows 10 figured out Bluetooth native support. I get the charm of super small, cheap and quite portable device which ATV is. I just prefer my Zwift to be much more smooth and pretty ;)
Yeah, I really wish I could say the same, but it's impressive how many bugs float across the PC/Mac variants. Heck, my Windows box (which is only a year old) refuses to pair BT in Zwift for some unknown reason. I could spend hours/days troubleshooting why, but I've given up on it. I just stick an ANT+ adapter in it.
@@Dcrainmaker The M1 MBP has been flawless connecting to Zwift’s either via BT or ANT+. I mostly use ANT+ since I give the more solid connection to TrainerRoad via Bluetooth.
@@Dcrainmaker As of BT there is some quite common problem with Visual C++ on some W10 machines. Installing this usually solves it: www.techpowerup.com/download/visual-c-redistributable-runtime-package-all-in-one/
@@craigthomasutube We need native ARM Zwift for MacOS. It could look and run much better than current emulated version.
@@michwoz Oh man, totally agree. Hope that’s on the horizon soon. Come on @Zwift
Short and sweet, answering all my lingering questions. Thanks Ray!
No problem!
Great job Ray, you just saved me $200.
Hopefully with some tweaks we'll be back in business!
Great content and precise
Thanks!!!
Ray, did anything change since your review ? e.g. due to IOS update
Didn’t Zwift just updated their Apple TV app to support then new Apple TV 4K hdr “to support higher quality graphics” like a week ago?
Will you be doing an update video now that the latest Zwift update supports High Resolution Graphics on the ATV 4k 2021?
Any news on this or are the graphics still not as good as the original 4K version . Hard to find any updated videos on the graphics and how they compare
Hi DC Rainmaker, is the screen/image quality better now for the new 4K '21 Apple TV compared to the old one? That would give me a excuse for buying a new one!
I loved your hint at lots of new sports tech in the next 7-12 days!!! 12 days puts us at June 2, 🤔 I think some FCC applications expiry on the 2nd as well!! Also saw you logging some k’s last night!!
I imagine it’s just setting to a default graphical quality as in this update the new apple tv is unknown hardware
no need to imagine......that's exactly what Ray said about the graphics profile
Gracias Amigo! Waiting for the apple tv 5k 2022 hahaha
Did they fix the ui issues and increase the amount of bluetooth connections?
Hey Ray, been looking to see if you have anything for the new 2023 Apple TV version. Can’t find anything for Zwift. Want to get Apple TV (my first) next month but want to know more about it or if better to get this 2021 or 2022. Any updates?
Any updates on whether things are already as high end as they'll get on the 2021 4K AppleTV? Wondering if Zwift can squeeze any more out of it in terms of graphic profile
Wonder if they stalled the release of the fabled, perhaps vapourware, ATV UI update pending release of the new hardware. I’ve got the 4K 2017 and with better BT support and maybe a gfx uplift in terms of quality and speed, I’d be tempted but not right now.
They said back a few mins ago (CEO, Eric Min), that basically they stopped that because they realized they had some more substantial backend type issues that they needed to sort through first, before changing the UI. In other words, their underwear had holes in it, and it was in more dire shape than a pair of new heals.
Top tips Ray👍
I am kinda late to ZWIFT and Apple TV meaning today I'm getting 2021 Apple TV 4K 64GB - Black (2nd generation) , so as of May 1st 2023 will it pick up 4 sensors ?
Great video! Could you do a similar video for the new iPad Pro’s? With the m1 chip hoping there’s a decent performance upgrade. That would be awesome!
I don’t have any particular plans to update to an iPad Pro, mainly as about the only thing I use my iPad for is watching YT videos and TrainerRoad. :(
But I heard the new Liquid Retina XDR screen is gorgeous for watching TH-cam, though. *wink*
@@trannel73 Haha... Literally, one of my two iPad's is from 2014. Seriously. The other one is from 2016...I bought it when Zwift announced iPad support: www.dcrainmaker.com/2016/08/zwift-ios-app-version.html
Just messing with you 😅🙈 sorry. Currently in full Apple silicon M1 hype and traded in my old iPad Air 2 from 2014 (maybe you have this one as well). Will be a blast to feel the speed for TH-cam convenience when purchasing the new iPad Pro 12.9” 🏎 watching Tour de France on the terrace let’s goooooo! 🤩
@@trannel73 Hahaha...yeah, I have an M1 Mac Mini at the office (you can just barely see it in this video below some monitors) that I use for a few random tasks. And I've had my finger on the buy button a few times for one of the new M1 iMac's to use at home for quicker rendering when I need to get something out (like last night...and two nights prior). But now the timelines here are 6 weeks for that, so I'll wait to see what happens at WWDC.
New to the zwift scene. Do you need an apple subscription (monthly cost) to use zwift on the apple tv box?
thanks for the vid. I gather that it is NOT worth upgrading from older ATV 4K.
But, if NOT currently a ATV owner, is it practical to purchase 2021 ATV 4K and patiently wait for Zwift to support new hardware spec? OR, is it more sensible to buy 2017 4K model at a bargain price? Thanks.
Based on the fact that other training apps can only support 2 sensors in addition to the remote, the limit is in tvOS. I have read (unfortunately, I can’t find the link) that the limit is artificial and the hardware can support the same number of connections as iOS devices.
Any update of this review planned? The 2021 ATV 4K graphics might be improved now?
The 'shadow problem' on the ATV 4K has been solved (for quite a while now). I think the graphics are really good for such a 'cheap' device but I can't compare with the older versions of ATV.
I've always wondered about AppleTV, other then the design, it seems a "what were you thinking Apple?"
They make a lot sense if your TV doesn’t have a good OS (a lot of older TVs for example and probably a lot of new ones). Everything can be controlled via the remote included and they integrate extremely well with other Apple devices. e.g. swipe down from the top right on an iPhone and there is an Apple TV remote and screen mirroring options
I’m running the Non-4k Apple TV. Wonder if it’s worth upgrading
Definitely, the non-4K version (even on the previous version) had a lower graphics capability, even if you weren't connecting 4K.
Do we know if there are more BLE Connections in 2022 apple tv? Or a y other reazon to update?
Does anyone know what's the conclusion for the BT limitation mentioned?
No change, still limited.
@@Dcrainmaker thanks a lot! :)
Am i the only one with lag and bad picture quality on the new ATV? The first version worked very well. But the version is not doing to good? Any ideas?
I’m running the last of the non 4K version on a 32” 720 TV. Will the new 4K make a big difference. in my experience.
Normally yes, it will. Regardless of the output resolution, the 4K versions just render better games than the non-4K version. This has been the case for the last four years. However, at 720p output, you might not really notice some of that.
Ray, any update on whether there is still only 2 BT connections? Or did they increase this to 3 as you mentioned? .
Why didn't they do an M1 version and charge $40 more?
Great analysis and information. But… It left me wondering, did it improve a few weeks after launch like you thought it would?
Not quite, it took till August to get updated/fixed.
@@Dcrainmaker So would you say the 1st gen 4k is still worth a buy, especially when it's cheaper and there's really no difference
Someone could tell us if there are an update app? know if in these 7 months it has improved.
So what about 4K uhd content, movies and tv shows, is it better?
Yes it better graphics if you haven’t heard of screen color collaboration
How do you connect an ANT+ device?
How do you navigate the in-game Zwift menu if the directional pad doesn’t work?
Great video, Ray! I have one question that hasn't been covered so far by anybody: At home not only me but also my wife and my daughters would like to use zwift. Since they do not want to have road bikes and I am taller than they are, there is currently no way... Could anybody recommend a "stationary" bike for zwift that solves this problem?
Road Runner I don't have one, but cycling friends swear by the Wahoo Kickr bike and also the Wattbike. Both are pretty spendy, though.
That's a tough one. The best of the bunch these days is the Wahoo KICKR Bike, but that costs $3,500! Eeks! You've then got the Stages SB20, Tacx NEO Bike, and Wattbike ATOM that are all solid options but at a lesser price point.
I have a stages sb20. Highly adjustable. Takes only a couple minutes to adjust seat x axis , seat y axis, handle bar x axis and handle bar y axis. Handle bar pitch and seat pitch requires an Allen wrench though. Although I don’t adjust those once fixed. Wife uses it for her peloton classss and I use zwift. Happy to spend the 3k it cost and would do it again
This is an issue I face as well. I have Kickr Snap but I rarely use it because it's not practical for our home gym, as my gf also likes to ride on Zwift. A bit spendy at 900, but we have a Concept 2 ERG bike that connects without wires and is quickly adjustable. It's been rock solid with zwift and we love it. Low tech for the most part, but I love that part since too much tech makes for a headache (we learned this the hard way with our Bowflex treadmill that has to perform an update once a week and takes 20 minutes). Anyway, we have over 6k miles on the thing in a little over a year and are considering a second one for our cottage.
How can you say the previous remote functions perfectly ! Zwift needs to work on the interface for Apple TV on the very known issue of erratic selection with the remote. Looks like the new remote isn't better at all.
I'm not sure where I said the previous remote works perfectly. I simply said that the mini-swipe section within the new remote works within Zwift to the same level the previous remote did. But I've never said the previous remote is great, in fact, I literally made an entire video about how bad it is within Zwift (and in general).
@@Dcrainmaker You mention that Apple TV works great with Zwift. However, the remote navigation is part of the experience - very annoying. We would have hoped that the new remote would improved a lot the experience - which isn't the case, unfortunately. Whether it is the Zwift interface or the remote itself, maybe both are problematic ?
Is it possible to run ZWIFT on Apple TV on a Computrainer.
Ray!!! Zwift 32” tv - full hd or hd ready?
Ray, Thanks for this and apologies if my question has come up recently. Just bought the new remote presuming that they would have the directional pad functionality figured out by now, but no. So, right, this remote is worse than the old one for Zwift. Do you have any insight into when they will do the necessary programming? I am driven mad by the inability to maneuver around with either remote.
I’ve always just mirrored my iPhone on ATV. It is the best of both worlds. Easy light weight setup and I can have more than 2 Bluetooth connections and navigation is on the phone. I think Zwift’s companionship app is useless. No reason to upgrade the ATV.
Hey can you help please? Do I mirror zwift from my phone with airplay onto my 4K TV or unpack the new Apple TV 4K TV and operate zwift directly through that? 🙏
Please provide link to the cyclist figures by the cassette? Those look awesome!
Here ya go: www.themodelcyclist.com/ - Enjoy!
@@Dcrainmaker Much obliged! Thank you!
Thanks, nicely done
Is the problem with the shadow of Apple TV now solved by an update?
the remote control is now recognized
My Question is the following:
1. Can we expect anything to change after Zwift has assessed the device? As DCR pointed out, right now Apple TV 2021 is even worse than its predecessor
2. What about 4K support (not profiles), if Apple TV 2021 is connected to a 4K TV will it output 4K resolution?
1) I suspect we'll see the buttons on the remote get fixed super quick, and then I suspect we'll see them tweak the profile slightly pretty quickly - hopefully to get the shadows back.
2) Zwift has never supported 4K on any Apple TV units, but, you can still output in 4K, the game just isn't rendered in 4K. For example, I was outputting in 4K/30-SDR, but the game is only rendered in 1080p. I haven't heard any plans to change that.
Assuming Zwift figure this out and Rouvy/Fulgaz etc do too - would you be able to do another comparison in a few weeks/months?
Yup, definitely!
Is your 2017 edition also known as the 2nd Gen version?
A12 has known capabilities, one can look at A12 (or later) iPhones or iPads. Even a 2020 iPad Pro I have with much more powerful processor did not get assigned any profile other than basic.
True, but as others have pointed out, it's actually a bit more complex than just the A10/A12/etc chip (such as being permanently connected to power, giving it more power), which is one of the things Apple tried (mostly successfully) to illustrate in their keynote.
The frame rate is visibly choppier on the 2021 model.
I think the new Siri remote will also work with the previous generation Apple TV 4K.
Yes, Apple confirmed that at launch.
Correct.
Bought one separately for my 2017 due to family members really struggling with the old one. Works as expected, auto pairs straight from the box. I have the case Ray recommends for the old one and actually quite like it still, but family much happier with the new one!
But, Zwift on ATV does not support a BT keyboard after all this time. Why not, other apps on ATV do? The companion app is a dogs breakfast.
No doubt the new 2021 ATV will align with Zwift and other apps. No doubt. If you’re looking for a new ATV definitely buy the new one. Even for just having the new remote. The 4 buttons will end up working with Zwift, those up/down/left/right will make navigating a blessing. I was a huge fan of using my ATV 4K as my pain cave setup. I’ve transitioned to an M1 MBP only because I’m running Zwift and TrainerRoad at the same time. It’s been flawless after getting the Bluetooth and ANT+ all dialed, and graphics on my 4K tv is better. It’s not a simple setup like the ATV, and much more costly, but the specific setup I was looking for is working great.
As soon as U said there wasn't more than 2 blue tooth connection I switched of
2 is usually enough. And if you need more because your setup is particular, you can add them using the Companion app as a bridge. Most people have their smart trainer and HRM on the two channels. The trainer provide control, cadence and power on one channel. HRM use the other.
My 2016 Alienware alpha is just becoming painful to run Zwift on, I really don’t want to spend 1000s on something that’s only used for Zwift so thanks for this vid ray. Zwift does look poor after playing glorious ray traced Ratchet and clank on the ps5 tho lol
If I still have the pre 4k ATV is graphics better?
Definitely. The non-4K versions were always a bit hobbled in performance.
@@Dcrainmaker ok, thx. And probably Zwift will fix all the issues due to being a new device in a few months.
Ok, not in a hurry to upgrade my old Apple TV 4K
Indeed, not yet. Maybe soon!
@@Dcrainmaker agreed. I’m an early adopter for most things but these days the initial firmware and software support is half baked on release so it’s ok to chill for a bit
So it’s basically worth getting at some point, just to future-proof yourself over the current ATV 4K.
Yeah, I think if we fast forward even just a few weeks, many of these initial concerns will be sorted out in Zwift updates. Ultimately, I wouldn't go out and buy an old one for really any reason. I'd either wait a few weeks, or buy the new one and presume the minor quirks will get sorted.
I still don't have an Apple TV but figure I can wait for that M1. #ItsFridayNightAndIDontHaveThingsToDo
Update: Friday nights are overrated these days.
@@Dcrainmaker - Homemade pizza night at the LeGrands!
@@mlegrand Indeed, we're pretty much the same!
Every day seems like Monday.
Hi Ray!
Do you use the Rode for your sound in this video, or is it a backup?
In this case it was the Rode Wireless Go 2, with a separate Lav mic. There's something up with the Lav mic connection though causing a slight pop every once in a while. I've gotta troubleshoot it.
Regarding the number of concurrent BT connections, I don’t think it’s a hardware issue as I was just able to connect three Bluetooth game controllers and a Bluetooth keyboard to my previous Gen Apple TV 4K. So my guess is it’s a Zwift issue unless Apple only allows multiple connections for certain types of hardware. For instance, it won’t let me connect 2 Bluetooth keyboards at the same time. When attempting to connect a 2nd Bluetooth controller while I already had one connected along with some Bluetooth headphones I got a popup message that said “Only one game controller can be used with Bluetooth audio. To connect this game controller, change your audio output to HDMI”.
Yeah, historically it’s always been an Apple limitation that impacted all apps. Keep in mind that technically BT smart could be separate from legacy BT, or, Apple just randomly got around to allowing more connections - which would be huge.
@@Dcrainmaker According to this support article from Apple (support.apple.com/en-us/HT205302) you can connect up to 4 MFi Bluetooth controllers which should allow for local multiplayer gaming. Hopefully this means Zwift can support additional Bluetooth sensors without resorting to the Companion app.
@@mikemccarthy6851 Interesting. All of those accessory types shown are legacy (full) Bluetooth, as opposed to Bluetooth Smart (Low Energy). From a practical standpoint, there's no reason why there would be a limitation on BLE but not full BT. But of course, practically doesn't just mean a random software limitation because Apple didn't see a use-case (which, is what I suspect we're running up against).
@@mikemccarthy6851 "The page you're looking for can't be found." - is there something missing in the page address?
(ETA: Figured it out - you configured the parenthesis at the end as part of the URL! ) - should be support.apple.com/en-us/HT205302
I do not see any bike shadows on either Apple tv nor on my own. Am I blind or did I misunderstand what you meant ??
They're under the riders themselves, so i guess technically more rider shadows than bike shadows in this case.
@@Dcrainmaker oh I see what you mean, thought you meant a shadow I have seen when riders use a gaming pc (a Full bike and rider shadow)
@@hrpzwift945 Yeah, good point, slightly different.
“The next 7, 10, 12 days” eh? Me thinks June 2nd will be exciting.
June 2 today and the silence if deafening, More like July 2,
@@nickwilliams1953 June 2nd had the release I was hoping/waiting for (945LTE).
Thanks.
apple 4k 2021 not controlling zwift app
Just a heads up! Pairing with the companion app is still shiit! work really bad!
I. Going to wait ,I’m not bothered by the remote.
Yes you are. You are lying
Why people choose Apple tv / Chromecast over Windows PC?
Because it costs less than $200 and works pretty much flawlessly.
@@Dcrainmaker It looks garbage compared to a PC for a little bit more; even with the current graphics card issues... (£70 PC; i3 haswell, 8gb ram, ssd ebay) plus graphics card 1050ti (or 1030 untill they get cheaper again.)
@@robiedoo00 Nobody is comparing parts off of eBay to buying a ready to go product.
@@Dcrainmaker Plenty of us are and perhaps more should for VFM rather than accepting a closed ecosystem to spoon feed them a potato branded 4k that is far from that!
@@robiedoo00 Sure, but that's not the point. I can build a system too - but you can't do it for $179 from new parts and have it work perfectly just about every time. The 1050ti is 2x that alone, even a 1030 is $100 by itself. Let alone all the other parts you've gotta buy. C'mon, I literally built datacenters for two decades - I'm very well aware of what you can and can't build.
I can save you 9 minutes: Zwift does not have a profile yet for the 2021 Apple TV - so we don't yet know if it's actually better or not. Stay tuned a month or two to find out.
Except, I cover a lot more than that.
@@Dcrainmaker I love your reviews - keep at it.
So my wife and I STILL can’t ride Zwift side by side ugh.
Well, you can...you just have to buy another TV. ;)
The apple TV remote with zwift is terrible. So much so that I really need to find an alternative.
Apple TV is the goat
If you are one of those weird people who do not own a smartphone and want to get into Zwifting what is the easiest way to do that? I will buy a Wahoo Kickr. I don't mind spending money.
The reason I came in with the negative here is because you’re talking about a negative. The negative is that they haven’t updated for the new unit yet. You could have cut to yes buy the new one today and wait for update.
There’s a very simple rule in tech: Never buy tech based on promises or un-implemented features. And when it comes to Zwift specifically, that rule is even more important.
@@Dcrainmaker I moved it over to a positive. You’re a very good reviewer overall. I didn’t know what zwift was until you showed your tv. It looks fun.
@@Dcrainmaker and ps don’t buy any Sony TVs because they have promising VRR for a year.
The new Apple TV is just disappointing in terms of processor. The old 4K got the then iPad Pros cpu a10x. now it’s just a a12 which performs worse in some benchmarks compared to the a10x. Compared to the current iPhone cpu models it’s a joke, not even mentioning the m1 chip. I was so looking forward to replacing my desktop for Zwift…guess it won’t happen :)
I use my old PC (Skylake, 2015?) with ANT+ receptor and it just works fine. Screen is my old 52" TV in HDTV. Better details than ATV. Going to stick with that.
Didn’t understand a word he said 😂 …..I’m old
Apple TV with M1 chip? Hold your horses, Ray 😅 this thing renders 4K footage in second, and would bump up the Apple TV price by 100-200$ I believe. So maybe the A12 might be good for our wallets 🙂
Except some of us would gladly pay that extra $100-200 for an M1 AppleTV. I, for one, plan on skipping this new ATV and getting an M1 Mac Mini instead.
Yeah. Well. You got me. I would pay for one M1 Apple TV as well 😂
Only 3 ble connection?!?🤮
For now. But we should wait before counting all those chickens...
I wouldn’t hold my breath on that changing.