Apple TV, which has so far been a minor failure, will get a boost from both the new iTunes LP format and a $100 price cut. However, you may want to hold off on that purchase for an expected new model.
Some had thought the new Apple TV would debut as part of the 09/09/09 “Only rock and roll” event. Indeed, with the new iTunes LP, enhanced online music product, and additional DVD content becoming available, a new Apple TV would have been a fine addition to the event.
Alas, it was not to be, perhaps because there are too many current units sitting in the Apple overstock warehouse over in China someplace.
The existing 160GB version has been cut $100 to $229 leaving the 40GB Apple TV nowhere to go but out of the product line. And, indeed, it is now gone. Clearing the way for new models, it looks like.
Having conquered music player market, Apple seems poised to get into home entertainment in a big way, but has not quite figured out how. Right now, game consoles are dominant as TV attachments, but that is not really Apple’s space.
The company needs a device that is aimed at content-based entertainment and works as part of a networked home. Some believe it will be a game console, too.
With new content in the iTunes store and the potential to grab a big share of the developing online rental market, there is plenty of reason for Apple to revamp/upgrade Apple TV.
My suggestion: Hold on to your Christmas money and see what happens before Thanksgiving.
David Coursey tweets as @techinciter and can be contacted via his Web site.