New Apple TV
Apple came out with a new AppleTV device last week. I’ve had my own AppleTV for a couple years now. I’ve found it extremely convenient for streaming iTunes content; and I have bought a few television series on it. I use Netflix for any movies I want, and I’ve ever been watching a number of series via Netflix streaming as well - which works wonderfully.
The new AppleTV is probably a fine device for new adopters. For me though, there’s really no reason to get it. I stream Netflix via my Blu-ray player and I can use the existing AppleTV to stream iTunes content.
But for anyone looking to unplug from the cable and satellite companies - I can say there’s no good reason to throw so much money at them. You can get all the content you need from Netflix and if you add in the AppleTV ($99) you can rip and stream all your pre-existing discs. I find that I spend much less on television by buying an occasional series on iTunes or on disc than I would spend with a cable or satellite subscription. And now of course, you can rent programming for .99 cents instead of buying it at twice that cost.
Here are some links with additional info if you’d like to know more:
TechCrunch: Why This New Apple TV Makes Sense
ArsTechnica: Apple’s Trouble with TV
For myself, I’m still interested in seeing what Google comes up with when it extends GoogleTV later this year…
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Comments:
Now that I have my iPad running 4.2 (Thank you, iOS dev status!), I am really wanting one of the new Apple TVs to try out AirPlay. I also need a mac, and an Airport Express. Why did I spend so much on PC components?
Yes,Sam, I know you are trying to figure this out…
Me, of all people, wanting Apple products. I have finally seen the light. Apple is the only was to go now. They have ensured that. It started with my iPod Touch back in 2008. I though it was genius. That turned into an iPhone, and that has now turned into an iPad. So, I own 1 of each of the iOS devices. I have dabbled with Mac before, but now, I am realizing the usefulness. All of these iOS devices finally made me get it. Mac is simplicity. It just works. Windows in clunky and doesn’t normally just work. So, my next major purchase will be a MacBook Pro. But, thanks to college, I am a little strapped for cash, so it will be waiting for a while. But, boy is it hard to wait!
For someone who hasn’t made the leap, there still isn’t a viable solution for sports, is there? That’s the bigger catch for my household.