Don't expect the revamped Apple TV to support 4K streaming, report claims
Apple's anticipated revamped Apple TV set-top box, which is expected to offer users many features currently available on iOS, isn't going to support streaming at mind boggling 4K resolutions, a recent report has claimed.
Before now, we've heard that an incoming update for the set-top box is expected to be unveiled at this year's WWDC in June, alongside the next-generation iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus handsets. Moreover, this new Apple TV is said to borrow many features from Cupertino's iOS mobile operating system, such as a built-in App Store, support for Siri, a software development kit (SDK), and around 8GB of on-board flash storage.
Now, however, a report from BuzzFeed claims that support for 4K streaming – another feature expected of Apple's next-gen set-top box – isn't going to reach our living rooms this year. Citing an unnamed source “familiar with Apple's thinking,” BuzzFeed notes that even though Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube are offering ultra-HD content, 4K streaming isn't Apple TV-bound.
The source reportedly told BuzzFeed, “4K is great, but it’s still in its infancy.” The report then goes on to add that 4K streaming is arguably an “unnecessary” addition to the Apple TV platform at this point.
Of course, this comes as surprising news – especially considering that Apple's iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus are capable of recording and playing 4K video, thanks to the devices' camera module and the Apple-designed A8 chip. Furthermore, a range of content providers are indeed offering ultra-HD content for consumers, making 4K seem like a natural addition to the set-top box. However, if BuzzFeed's source has it right, we're not going to be streaming 4K content from our iPhones to an Apple TV anytime soon.
See also: Apple's Maps app now offers users hotel reviews from TripAdvisor, Booking.com, Today’s apps gone free: Back to Bed, Quarriors, Printer Pro and more, and Dual is a head-to-head iOS shooter with a difference.
