Apple TV (3rd generation) (2012)
Third-generation Apple TV: 1080p in a familiar body, not third-generation Apple TV 4K.
Photo: Apple TV 3rd gen rear view.jpg · Omitted sounds · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized for the web, no crop or retouching.
Specs
| Display | up to 1080p |
| Chip | single-core Apple A5 |
| Dimensions | 23 × 98 × 98 mm |
| Ports | HDMI; optical audio; Ethernet 10/100; Micro-USB (service) |
Launch and context
Announced on March 7, 2012 and available from March 16 in the announced launch. A single-core A5 and playback up to 1080p were the central change from 2010. Apple kept the US $99 price and emphasized iTunes in the Cloud, AirPlay and an icon-based interface; services were territory- and era-dependent. [tv3-launch, tv3-spec]
How Apple presented it
It retained 23 × 98 × 98 mm, Apple Remote, HDMI, optical audio, Ethernet 10/100 and Micro-USB for service, not media storage input. Apple said second generation received the new interface through an update, but 1080p required third-generation hardware. Similar appearance does not mean equal capabilities. It predates the 4K models. [tv3-spec, tv3-launch]
Documented issues
No endemic model-specific fault or current availability of 2012 services is established in the cited sources. With no picture, check HDMI, input and direct connection; Apple's guide specifies Menu + Up 5 seconds to cycle resolutions every 20 seconds on generations 2/3. General troubleshooting, not diagnosis. [tv-care]
Sources
- tv-care · Apple, Apple TV picture and power troubleshooting · https://support.apple.com/en-us/108804
- tv3-launch · Apple, Apple brings 1080p to Apple TV · https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2012/03/07Apple-Brings-1080p-High-Definition-to-New-Apple-TV/
- tv3-spec · Apple, Apple TV third generation specifications · https://support.apple.com/en-us/112429
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Updated: October 25, 2026 · Compare this product