Apple is working on a new version of the Apple TV, and according to MG Siegler, it could arrive as soon as next month. We have independently heard that a new version of the Apple TV is in development, but our sources have not provided a clear picture in terms of a launch timeframe.
Siegler says that the launch could occur in October, which is the month that we’re expecting new versions of the iPad arrive. It would make sense for Apple to launch the new Apple TV and iPads in tandem as this is a launch combination that it has done in the past (iPad 3 + Apple TV 3 in 2012)…
It is unclear what the form-factor of this new device is. We’ve independently heard of Apple working on both a full-fledged TV set and a revamped set-top-box that is similar in form-factor to the current model. But no matter the hardware design, we have been consistently hearing from our sources that Apple is thoroughly testing Xbox Kinect-like motion sensors for future TV-related products. When Apple plans to release motion-controlled TVs, however, is uncertain.
While the motion technologies seem like features for farther into the future, perhaps the new Apple TV hardware design revolves around outputting improved video quality. Later this year, Apple will launch a new version of the Mac Pro that could drive 4K displays, so perhaps this new Apple TV hardware is designed to power the 4K displays already on the market. As demonstrated with the iPhone 5s’s A7 processor, Apple currently has the capabilities of pushing desktop-class, high-powered chips into tiny spaces.
With little content available for 4K TVs, Apple could use its own hardware to jump on the 4K bandwagon before any other media hardware company.
Besides new Apple TV hardware, Apple has some software updates for the living room up its sleeve. Next week, alongside iOS 7 for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, Apple will provide an update that activates new features like iTunes Radio. Also in the pipeline is an update for compatibility with OS X Mavericks’s improved multiple-display mode. A report from AllThingsD this morning claimed that next week’s update will activate some Google Chromecast-like functionality.
Also on the roadmap for later this year are a slew of new Macs, at least two new iPads, and some new software.
