Is Now the Right Time to Buy an Apple TV?

Apple TV Price Reduction Announced

During its March 2015 presentation, Apple revealed several new developments. One significant change was a price adjustment for their Apple TV streaming device.

Details of the Price Drop

The cost of the Apple TV box was reduced by $30. Previously priced at $99, it is now available for $69.

This price decrease makes the device more accessible to a wider range of consumers. It positions Apple TV more competitively within the streaming media player market.

The announcement was made alongside other product updates and service launches. It demonstrates Apple’s commitment to offering value to its customer base.

A New Apple TV Has Been Launched!

Apple unveiled its significantly redesigned Apple TV in October 2015.

This updated device features an integrated App Store, a streamlined search function, and a novel remote control. The remote incorporates a touchscreen and a dedicated Siri button, enabling voice-activated searches.

Comprehensive testing of this new iteration is underway, and all related articles will be updated to reflect the changes.

The Apple TV initially debuted in 2007, preceding the widespread adoption of devices like the Roku. The previously available model represented Apple’s third generation of the product and was considered outdated by contemporary technological benchmarks, despite a minor update in 2013.

Apple reports exceeding 25 million units sold throughout the device’s history. However, it consistently trails behind competitors such as Roku and the Google Chromecast, which is favored by How-To Geek. Reports from 2013 indicated that both Roku and Chromecast individually outsold Apple TV by a ratio of nearly 2 to 1.

It is atypical for an Apple product to remain a secondary market contender for an extended period. A $30 price reduction, coupled with exclusive, cable-free access to HBO through the forthcoming HBO Now service, has the potential to attract renewed consumer interest. The question remains: will these changes be sufficient to encourage a shift in preference?

The Hardware: Apple's Build Quality

The Apple TV is available for $69 and includes the device itself, a remote control, and a streamlined power cable featuring two prongs. This design eliminates the need for a bulky power adapter, conserving space on your surge protector.

Compared to other streaming devices, the Apple TV demonstrates solid construction. It possesses a substantial weight, attributable to its internal power supply, and a textured rubber base. This combination of weight and the base material ensures the Apple TV is resistant to accidental displacement from your entertainment setup.

Remote Control Considerations

Conversely, the included remote control presents usability challenges. While its construction quality is high – notably, it’s crafted from a single piece of aluminum – its ergonomic design is suboptimal.

The remote’s small size and awkward shape make it uncomfortable for extended use. This is particularly problematic as text input relies on the remote unless a Bluetooth keyboard is connected, which is a highly recommended accessory.

Fortunately, the Apple TV supports pairing with alternative remote controls, providing a workaround for those dissatisfied with the standard offering.

The User Interface

Currently, the Apple TV software operates on version 7.1, built upon the foundation of iOS 8.2. While functional as a streaming interface, it doesn't quite embody the polished experience typically associated with Apple products.

The design lacks the seamless fluidity and visual appeal characteristic of most Apple operating system designs.

Navigation and Menu Structure

The interface utilizes a grid-based navigation system. A limitation of the menus is the inability to navigate between the top and bottom sections directly.

Consequently, users must return to the top of a menu after reaching the bottom, which can be frustrating, especially during text input with the remote.

Performance Considerations

Due to the age of the underlying hardware, the Apple TV's performance isn't consistently fast or smooth. Responsiveness feels somewhat delayed.

The system isn't characterized by the snappy, instantaneous reactions users expect, instead exhibiting a degree of tediousness and lag. Although not entirely inaccurate to describe it as somewhat disjointed, a more cohesive user experience could be achieved.

The Potential for a Cord-Cutter's Ideal Solution

The range of content available is now largely uniform across various streaming platforms. Most devices provide access to services like Netflix, Hulu, and MLB.tv, alongside a vast selection of others. Should the Apple TV lack a specific channel you desire, it's likely you represent a less common viewing preference.

Furthermore, Apple TV will feature support for HBO NOW, launching prior to the premiere of Game of Thrones' fifth season. This feature alone could be a significant incentive for some consumers to purchase the device, despite the $14.99 monthly subscription cost associated with HBO NOW.

Apple is also reportedly engaged in discussions with established media companies to introduce a live TV service in Fall 2015. These potential partners include CBS, FOX, ESPN, and numerous others.

A monthly fee will also apply to this service, with projections ranging from $30 to $40. While no agreements are finalized and plans are subject to change, the possibility is appealing to those dedicated to eliminating cable or satellite television expenses.

This represents a compelling opportunity for individuals who actively seek alternatives to traditional television providers. The prospect of a comprehensive streaming solution continues to gain traction.

An Improved Apple TV is Anticipated

The primary draw of Apple TV will probably be for individuals deeply invested within the Apple ecosystem – utilizing devices such as Macs, iPads, and iPhones. While it functions similarly to devices like Roku or Chromecast, the user experience is optimized when paired with other Apple products.

The recent $30 price reduction strongly suggests that Apple is preparing to launch a significant hardware update. Considering the current interest in HBO NOW and the potential for a live TV service, it would be illogical for Apple to pursue dominance in the living room with outdated technology.

Furthermore, if you are an iPhone or iPad user, an Apple TV isn't strictly necessary to access HBO; you can directly subscribe through your Apple TV or iOS device.

For those who own an Apple TV but haven't fully embraced its capabilities, revisiting the platform now could be worthwhile. Although the platform hasn't yet reached its full potential, Apple’s continued development of new features and content demonstrates their commitment to it.

Therefore, our assessment is that patience is advisable. While HBO NOW is appealing to many, it will remain available in the future, and a new Apple TV version is likely forthcoming, potentially featuring an enhanced interface, expanded content offerings, and possibly Siri integration alongside app store access.