Will Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) work as Thread border router same as HomePod mini does?
Yes, the specifications seem to be the same. Thread devices that are not HomeKit/Matter-compatible may be excluded, though.
- Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) (2021) - Technical Specifications - Apple Support
Ports and Interfaces: Thread⁵
5. Compatible with HomeKit or Matter-enabled Thread accessories only. Thread-based accessories require a Thread-enabled home hub, such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod (2nd generation), HomePod mini, or a third-party Thread border router.
- Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) (2022) - Technical Specifications - Apple Support
Connectivity: Thread networking technology⁴
4. Compatible with HomeKit- or Matter‑enabled Thread accessories only. Thread‑based accessories require a Thread‑enabled home hub, such as Apple TV 4K or HomePod mini, or a third‑party Thread border router.
- HomePod mini (2020) - Technical Specifications - Apple Support
Wireless: Thread networking technology⁹
9. Compatible with HomeKit‑ or Matter‑enabled Thread accessories only. Thread‑based accessories require a Thread‑enabled home hub, such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod (2nd generation), HomePod mini, or a third‑party Thread border router.
Thread specification versioning: Current: 1.3 (includes mandatory Matter support). Apple’s version: ? (not mentioned in software updates).
Matter specification versioning: Current: 1.3. Apple’s version: ? (not mentioned in software updates).
Device versioning for Thread and Matter: probably 1.0–1.2. The first Matter 1.3 devices are expected near end of this year.
