Tại sự kiện mới nhất, Apple giới thiệu bộ hộp thu nhỏ gọi là Apple TV. Thiết bị nầy cho phép xem stream phim từ mạng Internet của Netflix, YouTube, iTunes hoặc stream dữ liệu từ các thiết bị như iPad hoặc iPhone (trong phiên bản IOS mới). Streaming là cách xem dữ liệu video trực tiếp trên mạng mà không phải tãi về máy điện tính.
Apple cũng sẽ mở rộng dịch vụ cho thuê phim bộ truyền hình với giá 99-cent và phim kể cả phim mới phát hành với giá 4,99$.
Nhưng số lượng tham gia hạn chế của các hệ thống đài truyền hình bên Hoa Kỳ – Hiên tại chỉ có ABC và Fox gia nhập – Máy Apple TV thiếu tính năng khác biệt so với các thiết bị hiện có và sự hạn chế kiểm soát chặc chẻ của Apple đã làm nhiều người không mấy hài lòng…
At the last event, Apple re-introduced the $99 miniature set top box called Apple TV, which allows only streaming contents from Netflix, YouTube, iTunes or devices such as the iPad or iPhone in later iOS version. Apple also will extend its rental offerings with 99-cent TV episodes and $4.99 new-release movies (same day as DVD release).
But the limited number of participating TV Networks – Only ABC and Fox for now – lack of differentiated features compared to other existing set-top devices and the closed nature have underwhelmed many enthusiasts.
Technically, we think that Apple TV is running a version of iOS and possibly an A4 processor similar to other iThings. The device should be able to run apps, which can far out pace anything out there. I think they choose not to unleash all the cylinders, at least for now and here my personal opinions:
- Rolling thing in phases, why rush, let users get familiar with the interface. Remember the iPhone did not have app at launch?
- Get it out before Google TV and make it cheap so it become a no-brainer to buy one
- In order to run apps, Apple would need a more elaborate input method and new UI. Using an iPhone and iPod Touch or even the Magic Trackpad would make the solution cumbersome for now.
- Wait for the availability of a Web-based iTunes to allow purchased contents to be stored on an online locker. Right now Apple TV has no storage, only streaming rental is possible.
- Using AIRPLAY to stream videos, photos, music to living room TV, the Apple TV has become a must have $99 accessory to the existing iPad, iPhone,.. Great incremental revenues.. Continue to buy Apple gears.
- By the way (unrelated) AIRWAY technology can generate additional licenses revenues from accessory manufacturers while waiting…
- When App is enabled, any mainstream networks such ABC, HBO or smaller networks such Leo Laporte’s TWIT can distribute and monetizing their contents independently via app, Apple iAd might not be yet ready for Apple to grab a piece of the revenue.
- TV cable providers would become irrelevant. They currently receive large incremental revenues from the networks to carry shows on traditional cable. The Net Neutrality is not yet in place to protect the existing TV subscriber revenues. This would tremendously disrupt the entire media ecosystem. Networks don’t want to take that risk unless 99% households will have Apple TV installed.
Remember, the game center, and Steve Jobs keeps referring to Nintendo, Sony,…Apple TV could be a game console.. using iPod Touch or iPhone as controllers.
Now you can see, once fired up all cylinders, Apple TV will play a major platform for Apple in the future. I can’t wait the day Steve Jobs will cross he “Hobby” word in an Apple TV presentation and hopefully by that time, Apple could get the name iTV.
