Despite the fact that Apple recently released a completely redesigned version of their Apple TV software, A new rumor claims that they are planning to demo a completely new version of the OS at WWDC in June. But according to the report, this isn’t just a new version of the Apple TV software – it’s the same software that will run on their upcoming television!
BGR has learned from a trusted source that Apple is planning to demonstrate a brand new version of the Apple TV operating system next week at WWDC. This new OS is said to be much more feature-complete than the current OS that runs on the Apple TV, and is apparently the one that Apple’s upcoming HDTV will run. Yes, that one.
Just as interesting as the claim about Apple’s rumored television is that the report claims that the new OS will be able to communicate with third-party components, such as cable boxes and DVR devices, and that you’ll be able to control those component using the Apple TV remote.
The report also notes that is unveiling the software ahead of time to allow accessory manufacturers to tailor their components to work with the new operating system, and ensure that their products can be controlled through Apple’s remote.
We’ve heard Apple is actively trying to court manufacturers to use a new “control out” API in order for third-party manufacturers to make accessories that are compatible with the new Apple TV OS and the upcoming “iTV.” It’s said that by using the API, it will be possible to control any connected components all from the Apple remote (and the Apple remote iOS app as well, we’re assuming). […]
The control out API is said to work with all aspects of various popular components, even allowing control over things like program guides on a cable operators’ set top boxes and other hardware components.
As BGR notes, this would be a huge leap forward for home theater, as most setups currently require a tangled heap of cables and a number of different remotes, or require you to “program” other universal remotes to work with all of those components.
BGR’s track record isn’t perfect, but they have been accurate in Apple hardware and software rumors in the past. Still, as far as this rumor goes, I’ll believe it when I see it. WWDC is set to kick off on June 11th.
