Some people out there are Apple through and through. The thought of owning anything by another brand sends shivers down their spine. Other computers, phones, tablets and headphones just don’t match up.
Whether this is you, or you have not yet seen something which has caught your eye and need us to up our reviewing game, then you’ll be pleased to hear this is a package which offers a huge amount.
There are over 60 video services, and while this is undeniable not as many as the thousands offered by Roku and Amazon, you can get access to the hottest films and shows quicker than from streaming sites. You can rent or buy individual films and boxsets straight from iTunes, and 4K quality costs the same as standard quality.
You can watch live television through the TV Player app, and Netflix and Amazon Video are there too (Apple and Amazon obviously hugged and made up at some point as it was once a glaring omission). Just link them up, and you’re good to go. The Apple TV Home Screen acts as a search place essentially. NOW TV is also available, although we will warn you that the app is nowhere near as clear and concise as on the dedicated box/stick.
The Apple TV app is available on phones and tablets from the same brand as standard, so you can watch on the go too. This is a feature a lot of other services lack, as they’re restricted just to the TV they’re plugged into.
Siri gives you voice control ability, and the glass Touch surface on the remote means free control over menus and options as opposed to being crammed with buttons. An A10X Fusion chip also gives you enough power to download games from the app store and play through the TV, and AirPlay allows you to view photos which are on your phone.
There is no denying it is one which appeals mostly to those already with experience of Apple products. But it offers one of the sleekest experiences, and some apps which are just incredibly different for those who are yet to make the move too – Streaks Workout will help you get fit, TV Maps can help you see the world from your sofa and TED talks will help you get your brain working. Basically like having a phone in your TV. It is more than just a streaming device, and the definition of Smart.
