The next-generation Apple TV is shaping up to be a gamer’s paradise
With a little more than a week before its official unveiling, we’re hearing even more about the next-generation Apple TV. According to 9to5Mac, the updated hardware is designed to readily compete against other living room gaming consoles like the Nintendo Wii U and Xbox One.
While Siri control – strongly hinted by the invitation for the Wednesday, Sept. 9 event – will be a major feature of the device, Apple is also apparently ready to make a strong play for gamers.
The new device will allow users to download games directly from the App Store. And the games can be played with the revamped remote control. Thanks to Bluetooth technology, included motion sensors will allow gamers to do things like use the remote as a steering wheel for racing games.
And along with support for Bluetooth 4.2 technology, the box will also feature 802.11ac networking for the fastest possible connection.
Interestingly, the site also says that gamers will be able to use more complex MFi game controllers that have yet to take off with consumers. But providing a more console-like experience could very easily change that and finally bring iOS-compatible controllers to the mainstream.
What we already know
Just yesterday news leaked that Apple is planning to sell the new device for either $149 or $199. After announcing the device next week, it should officially hit the market sometime in October. The box will also be thicker and wider than the current model. It should be powered by a faster A8-series chip and have some internal storage capability.
Because of the higher retail price of the new model, the third-generation device will also more than likely stick around at its current $69 price point. But it won’t receive App Store or Siri support.
Even so, Apple is planning for both of the devices to be compatible with its rumored streaming TV service, which could arrive sometime in 2016.
If these recent reports are true, Apple could be primed to make an even bigger leap into the gaming market. And I’ll be interested to see what developers can do with the new features of a revamped set-top box.
For other news today, see: Google’s Android Wear comes to iOS, but with its limits, Memo points to September parts shipments for 12.9-inch iPad, and Apple’s latest hire could point to an upcoming augmented reality product.
