Apple introduced an updated Apple TV with a ton of new features and advanced technologies at the Sept. 9th “Hey Siri” press event. Here is what’s new:
tvOS with Dedicated App Store
Apple is introducing a brand new operating system, roughly based on iOS, called tvOS to power the new Apple TV. tvOS includes a dedicated app store, where developers can design and release their own apps - just like on iOS and OS X. Apple has made it easy for iOS developers to port their apps to the TV without hours of extra coding. Of course, it comes with many of the channels (now as built-in apps) from the old Apple TV built-in, like Youtube, Netflix, Hulu Plus, Showtime, HBO, MLB At Bat and many more.
Integrated Siri
The new Apple TV has Siri built-in, allowing you to search for content and get information right from your couch. The coolest part of Siri on the Apple TV is the ability to search across multiple apps. For example, I can ask Siri for “New Girl” and choose between watching an episode from Netflix, Hulu Plus or buying it off iTunes.
Another cool part of Siri is a feature that allows you to relive a funny moment or a line you missed. Just ask Siri “What did he (she) say?” and she will rewind the show a few seconds and turn on closed captions for that clip. You can also ask her about the movie, like “Who directed this?” or any question just like on iPhone, such as “What’s the temperature outside?”
Touch-Based Siri Remote
The most notable change with Apple TV hardware-wise is the remote design. Instead of buttons, the remote now has a glass touch surface to swipe through the new interface. It includes dual microphones for Siri and intuitive buttons for quick access to the menu, home, volume and play/pause buttons. It also includes a Lightning connector for recharging. No more need to worry about replacing the battery of your Apple TV remote.
Gaming with Apple TV
Apple TV now supports games. You can control games wii-style with the included remote, which has an accelerometer for racing games. Apple is also opening the door for third-party controller designs. At the keynote, Hipster Whale developers showed off a two-player version of Crossy Road right on Apple TV. You can even ask Siri to launch games to get start right away.
Tech Specs
The new Apple TV includes Apple’s A8 chip for incredible speed and efficiency. It has 802.11ac WiFi with MIMO, Bluetooth 4.0, HDMI 1.4, Ethernet and USB-C for service and support. The 32GB version is $149 while the 64GB is $199.
What do you think of the new Apple TV? Are you excited to try it? Let us know in the comments below?