Next-Generation Apple TV To Focus On Gaming

9to5Mac has reported that Apple Inc. is likely to enter the gaming industry with an upgraded hardware, including motion-control remotes, for the Apple TV

9to5Mac reports that the new Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) TV will be upgraded to compete with other major consoles. Sources close to the matter have told Mark Gurman of 9to5Mac that the next-generation Apple TV will have updated hardware, peripheral, and software to make the set-top box compatible for gaming. While it is not confirmed if the new device will be able to compete against consoles like Microsoft Corporation’s (NASDAQ:MSFT) Xbox or Sony’s PlayStation, more can be said when Apple announces the device details on September 9.

The publication adds that the next Apple TV will have a more responsive and proactive input from Siri. This has also been highlighted in Apple’s invitation for its event that tells users to ask Siri for a hint, to which she says that one should wait till September 9 to find out more.

Additionally, it states that Apple TV will likely have a full-blown version of iOS with a possible Software Development Kit (SDK) for developers to make apps and games for the set-top box. The company will also provide users with Bluetooth-connected game controllers, which will resemble the traditional ones. These remotes may also have touch-sensitive controls which may or may not incorporate Force Touch Technology.

The two dedicated buttons on the Apple TV remote will be accompanied with motion-controlled functions allowing users to select different functions on the TV, and dedicated Siri and Home Buttons for users' convenience. The remote will be connected to the set-top box with Bluetooth so having a pointed device is unlikely, akin to Nintendo’s Wii, which uses a sensor bar with infrared. The remote also comes with a replaceable battery.

We at Bidness Etc believe that Apple is likely to further expand its Apple TV services. In the age of smart homes, it seems Apple TV will ultimately be the device to allow users to control aspects of their homes without even moving. With Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) Echo, for example, smart home is connected with one hub. Apple’s HomeKit apps and products are also going to be connected seamlessly through the Apple TV.

Moreover, since Apple is considering entering into the gaming industry, there can be a possibility of an Apple-made console in the future. We believe that Apple TV is likely to only handle games that are already on the App Store for the iPhone and the iPad. Currently, the company is not capable to take on companies like Sony and Microsoft, which have products powerful enough to play heavy games. In addition, as it opens up the SDK to the developers, it will be a while till proper games are developed for playing with the appropriate remote and console.

Apple is likely to now provide regular hardware upgrades to the Apple TV, as it strives to update the product for more features and services each year. Currently, the closest thing that the company has to a connected TV is the Mac Mini. This is a mini machine which connects to a computer and provides users with an OSX experience, while being controlled by a keyboard and a mouse.


We believe that Apple wants to make this all-in-one, and that Apple TV is being updated at the right time. The company has also hinted at making original content to provide to Apple TV customers.

What’s more, Apple is likely to announce a range of products on September 9 at the Bill Graham Convention Centre in San Francisco. Possible products include the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, iOS9, the Apple TV, and quite possibly, a new iPad.