Yes, the Apple TV can learn to use a third-party remote control. The remote included with the Apple TV is not required.
To use another remote with Apple TV follow these steps:
1. On the Apple TV navigate to Settings -> General -> Remotes -> Learn Remote.
2. Select a button or setting that doesn't control another device.
3. Click Start to teach Apple TV which buttons to use on the new remote.
The Apple TV requires any standard Type A plug, male to male HDMI cable.
Apple TV does not include an HDMI cable in the box. The Apple TV must be connected to an HDMI receptacle on a display capable of high-definition 1080p or 720p.
Apple offers an official 1.8 meter (6-foot) HDMI to HDMI Cable for $19.00.
No, there is no jailbreak solution for the third generation Apple TV.
The 3rd generation Apple TV was released in March 2012, and the 3rd generation Rev A launched in January 2013. Neither model has a bootrom exploit, and the USB port on the latest Apple TV is disabled until the device completes booting.
Submitted by Fred Straker on
Imagine a future where the Apple TV streams content via AirPlay to mobile devices. An Apple patent titled "Displaying a synchronized instance of content on a portable electronic device" explains this very process in detail. Normally, content is sent from an AirPlay enabled app on an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch to the Apple TV.
The patent explains the reverse of this process, with a fixed display system such as the Apple TV feeding synchronized content to the portable device. The iOS device viewing the content would automatically determine if the content being streamed is compatible and can be viewed. If so, the content would be synchronized and delivered via AirPlay on a Wi-Fi network. What's more interesting is the possible scenarios that make this functionality useful.
Apple TV app icons can be hidden so they don't clutter up the home screen. To hide specific apps from view follow these steps:
On Apple TV software 6.0 or later:
1. Use the remote control to navigate to Settings -> General -> Restrictions.
2. Scroll down to the list of apps and select which icons to hide or show.
Note: Restrictions do not have to be enabled to hide channel icons.
On earlier versions of Apple TV:
1. Use the remote control to navigate to Settings -> General -> Parental Controls.
2. Select Turn On Parental Controls and enter a four-digit passcode.
