BuzzFeed reports that the launch has been delayed from June. Apple postponed it so that it could concentrate on the Apple Music streaming service but with that completed can now shift its attention back to Apple TV.
It will now be unveiled late next month alongside the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus and a refreshed line of iPads, possibly including the long-rumoured 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Apple sources told BuzzFeed that the new Apple TV will be “drastically improved” over the current offering which was introduced in 2012.
Apple TV is effectively a smart set-top box that works with any existing television. It gives you easy access to music and video streaming services and allows you to use your TV to display media from other Apple devices.
The next-generation version will boast noticeably improved performance courtesy of Apple’s A8 processor that is used in the current iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Owners will be able to control what they view by either talking to Siri or using the redesigned remote control, now featuring a touchpad for easier usage.
The software is getting an upgrade too. For the first time, Apple TV will be getting its own version of the App Store, allowing users to expand its functionality by installing third-party apps to add support for additional streaming services or devices.
Unfortunately, Apple’s upcoming TV streaming service reportedly won’t be immediately ready to launch alongside the redesigned hardware. The company is thought to be in ongoing talks with cable providers to ensure that the service will have content to show.
It is hoping the networks will agree to act as agents between Apple and local TV stations so that it does not have to do that time-consuming work itself. Earlier this month, the New York Post reported the company is in advanced talks with all of the major cable providers and that the service could still be available before the end of the year.
