This is a response to a great blog post by Joe Hewitt entitled Airplay TV.
Thoughts
- I agree that it won't matter if people have cable or DVDs in the future when the real IPTV comes, which looks to be more about apps on smart TV devices which could eliminate the need for a traditional set top box with "On Demand" or "IPTV" services.
- However, I wonder if Airplay isn't just a temporary solution, though a pretty good temporary one.
- The real improvement to some of the limitations he talks about may come with a new version of Apple TV that doesn't need Airplay and another iOS device to work, but just works on its own with its own user interface improvements.
That Apple TV May Have The Following
- A wand gyroscopic remote with trackpad.
- A version of iOS with an improved user interface which works with the remote from 10 feet away.
- Its own App Store for apps and games which work with the remote.
- Possibly a "TV" app that has a guide with content providers for live channels as well as previous archived shows for a price.
- Possibly a camera and microphone for FaceTime and Siri input as well.
The Wand Gyroscopic Remote May Have The Following
- A single power button to turn on the TV.
- Tilt up, down, left and right to highlight items on screen.
- Other waving gestures could perform different commands.
- Trackpad to perform clicks and other gestures with thumb.
- Possibly a touchscreen on opposite side of trackpad for keyboard, landscape game controls, and other controls when needed.
- Possibly remotes that include the touchscreen on the opposite side could be sold as an accessory since the cost would be more than with just a trackpad and people would need multiple gaming remotes.