“After three free software updates, Apple TV remains a ‘hobby project’ …but Apple stands a chance of turning the tide with the content card. As revealed by Apple’s executives, HD movie rentals via iTunes helped triple the gadget’s unit sales this past year. Although the company still treats Apple TV as a side-project, the funding continues for long run benefits. Take 3, a software update that might arrive as early as next month, could bring more “TV” to the Apple TV in addition to the hardware refresh that could be in the works as well,” Christian Zibreg reports for TG Daily.
“As revealed by Apple’s COO, Tim Cook, during the earnings call, ‘unit sales were up over three times versus the year-ago quarter.’ Readers should note that Apple does not provide ATV unit sales data in their financial disclosures – for now. Nevertheless, this uptick in sales was attributed exclusivity to HD rentals. ‘It is clear the movie rental business is working and there are more customers who want to try it,’ Cook told investors,” Zibreg reports. “Encouraged by the results, Apple will continue funding the project for its long run benefits.'”We will continue to invest there, because we believe there is something there for us in the future,’ he said.”
Zibreg reports,” Here’s our top five list of features that we think this hardware + software combo (referred to as ATV3) might deliver.”
• Full HD and DVR capabilities
• Built-in digital TV (ATSC) tuner
• Built-in Time Capsule and AirPort Extreme
• Premium TV channels via iTunes Store: Apple is strong enough in Hollywood to bring channels like Fox, CNN, Discovery, HBO and others to ATV3 via iTS on a subscription basis. Add iPhone into the picture and you got live TV on the go anywhere in your home.
• App Store access and ability to run apps
Full article here.
[Thanks to MacDailyNews Reader “Fred Mertz” for the heads up.]
