Apple released a major update to their Apple TV Software this morning, bringing the version up to 5.3, and adding a number of new apps. The update brings official support for HBO GO, WatchESPN, Sky News, Quello, and one of my favorites, Crunchyroll, to 2nd and 3rd generation Apple TVs, although the new apps are only available in certain regions.
From Apple’s press release:
Apple® today announced that HBO GO and WatchESPN are now available directly on Apple TV® joining the great lineup of programming offered to customers. iTunes® users have downloaded more than one billion TV episodes and 380 million movies from iTunes to date, and they are purchasing over 800,000 TV episodes and over 350,000 movies per day. […]
In addition to HBO GO and WatchESPN, three new content providers are also available today on Apple TV including Sky News, Crunchyroll and Qello offering live news, sports and current TV programming.
I’m super excited to see WatchESPN and Crunchyroll finally come to the Apple TV, and reaffirms that Apple seems quite committed lately to improving the content selections available on the Apple TV. Apple seems to be paying much more attention to their “hobby” than in years past – and that could pave the way for many exciting things to come.
The update is available now by opening the Apple TV Settings menu, and using the Software Update feature.
