It’s been almost a decade since Apple has released their very first Apple TV. Like with most other things connected to technology, the 2007 version of Apple TV was but a shadow of what we have available today. This first Apple’s attempt was essentially a device that functioned similar to an iPod connected to a TV.
But the company continued to build on the original idea and soon Apple TV was equipped with the ability to stream YouTube videos. The next year, users could stream content from the iTunes Store. This continued with Apple TV 3.0, which extended support for iTunes and internet radio. Over the years, Apple added more partners like Netflix, Hulu, MLB, Vimeo, etc., giving users access to even more compelling content. However, up until the most recent model, the device had no dedicated App Store.
Apple TV 4.0 Powered by App Store
The most recent version of Apple TV is almost completely driven by an App Store offering games, software, and video streaming services from third-party suppliers. With all the advancements and enhancements over the years Apple TV has evolved to become essentially a standalone computer optimized for TV.
Although there is a lot that could be done to improve Apple TV there is no denying that, with the 4.0 version, the device has stepped into new territory. Featuring a brand new “targeting” interface and a Siri-driven touch-enabled remote Apple decided it was the time the Apple TV platform received its own name – tvOS, although the underlying technology is based largely on iOS, which found in company’s other devices like iPhones and iPads.
The Best Apple TV Apps
With Apple TV finally becoming app-driven you’ll find a great number of interesting and useful apps to use on your device. It will all depend on your preferences, of course, but there are so many to choose from that hardly anyone will be left behind.
For movie fans, there is iTunes Movie Trailers. This app will let you watch trailers for all the latest releases on your Apple TV. The app doesn’t only feature trailers but also exclusive videos, interviews, and other related footage, giving you everything you could possibly need to create your must-watch list ahead of time. Even if you aren’t into movies that much, this is still a great app as it is completely free and it will help you not miss out on those titles that are really worth watching.
Late Shift Apple TV app is an interesting crossover between a movie and an interactive game. You are placed inside a 4-hour long movie, and you get to make your choices as your progress through the plot. Depending on your decisions, the plot will unravel differently, and you can arrive at different endings. Although it comes with a price of $6.50 this app will provide you with a lot of intense entertainment and it’s well worth every penny.
Poker Central, which is completely free, is truly unique and stands out among other Apple TV apps as it is the only app that will let you watch various poker shows on demand. The selection of shows is quite impressive as you will find everything from the live tournament and cash game play to documentaries and other interesting poker-related content.
Poker Central TV features many shows from their own production, some of which are sponsored by poker mammoths like the #2 worldwide poker room 888 Poker, as stated by this review. There are also numerous classics that you’ve probably seen before if you are into poker. Watching some quality old content again can be a great way to relax.
Finally, if you like to stay informed about global events Reuters TV: Video News is just the right app for you. This is a completely free app that fully caters to your needs. It doesn’t just let you watch the relevant news videos; it lets you watch as much news as you can fit within whatever free time you have available.
A great interface, a huge news database, and an algorithm to serve you the best selection of news for the time you have available make Reuters TV: Video News a must have for anyone who likes to keep up with recent happenings.
Apple TV Takes Television to the Next Level
With all the tweaks, enhancements, and the addition of third-party apps, Apple TV 4.0 offers a truly different TV experience. Thanks to its processing power, capabilities, and user-friendly tvOS, it lets you do so much more with your TV than just watching. Apple TV brings creative, interactive content to our homes and it gives us a glimpse into what the future of television may look like.