The new "Apple TV" is the company's latest addition to its line of premium devices. Although this device comes with many new perks, there are also some issues that makes competition easy for its rivals. Nonetheless, the "Apple TV" is generally a sleek device that comes with good features
"Apple TV" Design, Technology
The new "Apple TV" is bigger than the previous models. In fact, its size is like two old Apple TV versions stacked up over each other. Furthermore, the new "Apple TV" pairs nicely with Apple's new Siri Remote. This remote is the primary way for you to be able to control the Apple TV.
For the device's physical appearance, The "Apple TV" measures 35 x 98 x 98 mm with not a lot to see on it. There's just a white LED indicator and an Apple logo, which keeps the device's look as minimalist as possible. The ports present in the device includes a 10/100BASE-T Ethernet, USB C ports, and HDMI 1.4.
Although there isn't a lot to see in the Apple TV's outside part, the technology on the inside is a whole different story. First of all, the device comes with a much improved Apple A8 processor, a proprietary chip used in the iPad Mini 4 and in the iPhone 6 series. It supports 802.11ac Wi Fi, which offers faster streaming compared to the older model.
The Siri remote is also one attraction that the new "Apple TV" comes with. This new remote has a microphone for a good Siri experience and it also has a matte touch pad. The remote has six buttons but the ones you will most likely be using more are the two top buttons, the Menu and TV buttons. One good thing about this Siri remote is that it does not require batteries. It can be charged like a mobile phone, using a lightning cable. Its battery life isn't something to worry about as well as it can last for more than a week at a single charge.
"Apple TV" Interface, Content
The interface is undeniably very iOS. All apps are on the front page and navigating from section to section is very instinctive. However, like how it is in the iOS devices, there is no big room for personalization.
Furthermore, most of the content that will be shown to you is from the company itself, like the latest items on iTunes Movie. You will also be directed to Music for any of your audio needs. For non Apple users, the whole "Apple TV" thing can be a bit overwhelming. But if you are an iPhone or iTunes user, you can work with the Apple TV's content without accidentally saying yes to multiple promotional deals.
On the App Store, you will find your regular video streaming apps such as HBO Now, Netflix, and the likes, alongside top sports apps like the MLB.tv and NBA.com. If you want a taste of cable, there are also streaming versions of the PBS, ABC, and FOX, but these require individual subscriptions.
According to TechRadar, the options may be more limited in the UK. Also, in terms of content, there are many big names missing in Apple TV's list as well - the Amazon Prime Instant and CBS All Access are just some that come to mind. It was also mentioned that the "Apple TV" isn't very strong when it comes to photo and music apps. The best thing you can get when it comes to music is the 'Apple Music'. Spotify and even Deezer is nowhere to be found. For photos, there is just Flickr and Apple's own Photos App which only caters to your own photo stream.
If there is one good news about this it is that games are gonna play a big role in the new "Apple TV". But to warn everyone, take note that apps are more expensive in the "Apple TV" compared to other platforms. The game 'Beat Sports' for example, it costs a big $9.99. You will find that many of the "Apple TV" apps require you to pay a big amount upfront, which is way too different compared to what we see on the iOS App Store. But this can be understood as developers are working harder than ever figuring out the kinks of the new "Apple TV" platform.
"Apple TV" AirPlay
If you can't find the app that you are looking for in the "Apple TV" App Store, just open the said app on your phone or pad and then look for the AirPlay button then select your "Apple TV" from the selections. this way, content can be sent from your phone to the TV. AirPlay is Apple's best solution to many of the missing apps from the "Apple TV" App Store.
