There are plenty of rumours going around about a possible launch of an advanced Apple TV sometime next year, but consumer electronics manufacturers are ready to meet the challenge.
Apple leading connected TV market
Apple is set to capture 32% of the connected TV player market in 2011, according to Strategy Analytics.
Jobs on Apple TV: “I finally cracked it”
Apple may drop a full-fledged television, according to the new biography on Steve Jobs, which is published today in the US. “I finally cracked it,” said Jobs to author Walter Isaacson.
Apple drops $0.99 iTunes TV rentals in US
Apple has stopped its 99 cent (€0.68) TV show rentals from the iTunes Store. Instead, US customers are now only able to buy single episodes of TV series at a cost of $2 for the SD version and $3 for HD.
Apple working on Smart TV?
Apple is said to be working on TV, according to US blog Fudzilla: “Look for it to arrive with an official announcement around the holidays, according to the whispers we are hearing. Then again, it might amount to nothing and Apple may never bring the product to market.”
Microsoft to take on Google and Apple?
CES 2011 – LAS VEGAS. According to various US reports, Microsoft’s Steve Ballmer is said to unveil a new Windows-powered set top box to take on Google TV and Apple TV. Ballmer is expected to make the announcement during the opening keynote this Wednesday.
Sony opens developer site for Android TV
Sony has launched a dedicated website for developers of apps for its Google Android TV sets. At the moment, the site only offers the opportunity to register as a developer.
Netflix opens NBC Universal vaults
Netflix and NBC Universal have announced an agreement to stream prior season cable and broadcast TV series to Netflix subscribers. The service is available by subscription with pricing starting at $8.99 (€6.66) a month.
iTunes movies come to France, Ireland
Apple has announced that it has begun offering iTunes Store movie downloads in France and Ireland. Movies from Hollywood studios, as well as offerings from European studios, will be available for rent and for sale.
Apple TV 3.0 offers new interface
Apple has rolled out the Version 3.0 software for its Apple TV, offering a new user interface as well as new features including direct access to internet radio. A new update for iTunes software takes care of full interoperability.