Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is geared up to launch a redesigned remote control for the Apple TV. The reports came ahead of a new set-top box for the Apple TV that is releasing this year. The new remote control will use the touch pad technology for navigation, and even the look is being modified.
The Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) to be held in June will witness Apple announcing all its upcoming launches, and this launch pad remote will be one of those. The current remote control is not touch screen and has buttons like a conventional remote. Another product that is in the anvil is a development kit that will allow users to use their apps on their set top box.
The New Remote
The current remote control is very slim and delicate. A thicker remote like the one that comes with the Echo wireless speaker will be launched this year, and it may be equipped with additional buttons to make TV viewing a better experience. The best part would be using the touch technology.
The users will also get a better access to their Apple TV with the new set-top streaming box that will feature new packages. The streaming box was lasted updated in 2012, even though the price was brought down to $69 from the launch price of $99 for the Apple TV. The company sold 25 million units since 2007 when it first launched Apple TV.
Later this year, users will also be able to stream ABC, CBS and Fox network programs and this service would be available on all iOS devices. There is no update on the same till now, and Apple has not divulged any additional details, saying that it was working on providing the complete package to its users.
No YouTube in Updated Set Top Box
Meanwhile, the latest upgraded software set top box will be discontinuing streaming of YouTube. According to Google, this is because the software interface for remote access to the site has been upgraded to version 3 and the users using the non-updated version of Apple TV can easily access YouTube.
