Submitted by Fred Straker on
The three-year old Apple TV has finally been refreshed. Apple detailed the next generation Apple TV at its fall media event. Highlights include a brand new remote control, which adds touch controls and Siri integration to the experience. The top surface of the remote is designed with a glass surface for easy swiping and touch selection. Siri brings voice search to the device, spanning multiple content sources such as Netflix and Hulu and returning all relevant watching options in one place.
Siri can also be asked to display sports scores and other information on Apple TV. The new operating system is dubbed tvOS. In addition to searching and viewing all kinds of video content, third-party apps will bring gaming, shopping and other functionality to the largest screen in the house. Apple TV features apps such as Zillow as well as interactive live sports apps including MLB TV and NHL Game Center.
When it comes to specifications, Apple TV includes Bluetooth 4.0, 802.11ac Wi-Fi with MIMO, IR receiver, and a 64-bit A8 processor. The remote control has a built-in gyroscope and accelerometer and charges using a Lightning connector. Not only this, but battery life will be three months, and the remote can control most televisions.
Pricing is set at $149 for 32GB of storage, and $199 for the 64GB model. The operating system tvOS launches today for developers, and the "future of television" hits stores in October in 80 countries around the globe.