One of the best features of the fourth-generation Apple TV has been the Universal Search function, which finds content across multiple apps and services. At first, the function was limited to iTunes, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and Showtime, but Apple has been working to expand the feature to other content providers.
… As of today, searching for content on the Apple TV will encompass the aforementioned apps along with FOX NOW, FXNOW, and National Geographic. Apple also expanded universal search to include PBS and PBS Kids in January.
Universal Search now searches across iTunes, HBO GO, HBO NOW, Hulu, Netflix, PBS, PBS Kids, Showtime, Showtime Anytime, FOX NOW, FXNOW, and NAT GEO. However, the feature is currently limited to Apple TV users in the United States.
Users in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK, only see results for movies and TV shows on iTunes and Netflix, in all other countries, search is only displays information for movies in iTunes.
Apple is working to expand the number of apps that can make use of universal Search by opening up its search API to additional apps. The company originally announced plans to open the API to third-party developers back in October, and we are just now beginning to see third-party apps taking advantage of the API.
