Has a reference to Apple’s next-gen edition of their Apple TV been hiding right under our noses? Uncovered in iOS 7 software builds that date back to the operating system’s initial September launch are calls to an Apple TV device with an unfamiliar revision number.
While the item was no discovered until recently, the build files reference an ‘AppleTV4,1’ — or version 4.1 — among other known versions of the hardware. The jump from the most recent build of Apple TV, version 3.2, suggests the reference could hint at a long-rumored hardware refresh for Apple’s set-top box.
Fans of the platform along with analysts attempting to predict Cupertino’s next move have called for a heftier overhaul of the Apple TV product ever since Apple introduced only a minor upgrade early in 2013. Other than a redesigned single-core A5 chip, that edition remained identical to version 3.1 of the device introduced the year prior.
Many rumors have circulated about what Apple’s next version of their television platform could entail. While most believe a full-fledged television set with 4K display is out of the question for the near future, a more likely upgrade includes the merging of Apple’s AirPort wireless base station with the set-top component. Other speculated enhancements include a TV-specific App Store, gaming support with Bluetooth controllers, and inputs that would place the Apple TV interface inline with the signal coming from a cable or satellite box.
While Apple TV hasn’t played much into Apple’s recent hardware plans, signs are mounting that the company could be gearing up for a big push in 2014. Toward the tail end of 2013 and into the new year Apple has been busy adding content streams from the Likes of HBO, ESPN, Vevo, and more. The slow rollout of “channels” is expected to eventually culminate in the launch of a revamped television product.
[via 9to5Mac]
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