The more I learn about the new fourth generation Apple TV, the more impatient I am to get my hands on this device. Here’s why…
Universal Search
For me, Universal Search is one of the most anticipated new features for the fourth generation Apple TV. Until the fourth generation Apple TV, you needed to open and search for content within each app separately. This is a slow, time-consuming and I would add, painful process. It is likely why most Apple TV users settle on just a few apps and leave the rest alone.
Instead of jumping in and out of different apps searching for content, Universal Search will search within multiple apps. Initially, the new Apple TV will search for streaming content across iTunes, Netflix, HBO, Showtime and Hulu. In an interview with Buzzfeed, Tim Cook mentioned that Apple has plans to offer an API to developers so more Apps can be included in Universal Search.
The Remote
The remote control for the fourth generation Apple TV has had a significant upgrade as well as the Apple TV itself. Easy, smooth navigation and selection will make this remote a pleasure to use. Aside from the fact that the remote will serve as a game controller, the following features have been added that will likely make this the most coveted device on the couch.
Look Ma’ no batteries. The remote has a lightning connector and is USB chargeable. Like the batteries it no longer needs, the remote will hold a charge for months. It includes a touch pad for gaming and navigation, an accelerometer and gyroscope for gaming, Bluetooth 4.0, support for third-party gaming controllers, an IR blaster so you can forget about needing your TV’s remote close by to control your TV’s volume. And finally a microphone on the front and back of the remote to facilitate communication with Siri. Simply tell Siri what you want to watch. No more keying in search strings with the remote–Hooray! This remote has all the right stuff.
Between Universal Search, this remote and Siri, this device will be an absolute pleasure to use.
With 2 Gigs of RAM, a faster A8 processor, additional storage (32 and 64GB options), games, it’s own App Store, and third-party app development for the Apple TV makes this a little powerhouse of entertainment. I can’t wait to get my hands on it. And just in time for Christmas.
Get a peek at this unboxing of a developer unit.
