A report that backs up a number of much-repeated features and specs for the next-generation Apple TV was published by TechCrunch last week, and it claims the new set-top box will include a motion-sensitive remote control that will boast multi-axis sensors, a touchpad, and more.
TechCrunch editor-in-chief Matthew Panzarino, via MacRumors:
A game controller with a microphone, physical buttons, a touchpad and motion sensitive controls would be extremely capable. While Apple is likely going to target the broad casual gaming market, I would not be shocked to see innovative gameplay blossom from that type of input possibility. Think, for instance, of multi-player gaming with several people using voice input, or many popular genres of party games that would do far better on the TV than on an iPad or iPhone.
An Apple TV, with a library of casual games via an App Store would be a significant lure for casual gamers. Put that together with access to all your media, as well as on-demand content, home automation, and a much-rumored streaming TV service, and a new Apple TV looks better and better.
Panzarino notes that he is told the new Apple TV “is said to blow away” other interfaces viewers have used on other set-top boxes:
If Apple did indeed ‘delay’ the Apple TV from being released at WWDC, then it probably had a reason. And, if my sources are correct, that reason could well be polish, polish, polish. The experience of using it is said to blow away the types of junky smart TV interfaces we’ve had to deal with so far. This is the first real Apple TV product.
Apple is expected to debut a next-generation Apple TV on September 9th, alongside the usual new iPhones.
