Prospects for the use of Apple TV set-top boxes. What is Apple TV and why you need it What is an Apple TV set-top box

Fourth generation, 2015 model

The history of the Apple TV set-top box, designed primarily for streaming content from the Apple ecosystem, in particular movies and TV shows, as well as online video on your TV screen, began almost nine years ago. In early autumn this year, the company introduced the fourth generation of this device. For those who do not follow this topic, our reviews of past versions of the console may be useful: first, second, third.

If the third generation differed little from its predecessor, then significant changes can be noted in the fourth. The most significant of them is the possibility of installing an additional software, which significantly changes not only the set of its functions, but also the positioning of the model. In this article, we will get acquainted with the novelty and see what new it can give users.

In testing, a device with the article number A1625 and 64 GB of flash memory was used. The official cost of the version with 32 GB of memory is 13,390 rubles ($149 in the US), and the modification with 64 GB of memory is offered for 17,990 rubles ($199 in the US). Note that the previous generation is also presented in stores and its cost is much lower - only 5990 rubles ($69 in the US).

Delivery set and appearance

The prefix comes in a larger box than its predecessor. Its color is unexpectedly black, in contrast to the packaging of most mobile devices from this manufacturer.

The player is in the box. network cable power, remote remote control, a Lighting cable and a few flyers.

Additional accessories for this device the company's arsenal includes a branded Remote Loop strap ($12.99). AT official store the SteelSeries Nimbus Wireless Gaming Controller ($49.95) is also available in the US.

The appearance of the model compared to the third generation has changed little. In fact, the only noticeable difference is the increase in case height - from 23mm to 35mm. At the same time, the projection has not changed - the same square with a side of about 10 × 10 centimeters and rounded corners. So if you stack the devices on top of each other there will be a perfect match. In addition, the weight increased - from 256 g to 424 g.

The body is made of black plastic. On the top side, it has a matte finish with a glossy company logo and "tv" lettering. The sides are glossy. The bottom is made of soft-touch material.

On the back side are all connectors - HDMI, RJ45 wired network, service USB-C, power cable input. As we can see, the additional digital audio output has been reduced.

On the opposite side, a single indicator is installed. It has a white glow and is almost invisible during operation. The IR receiver window is not highlighted in any way. Formally, to control the system with a standard remote control, it is not necessary to provide direct visibility, since a wireless radio channel via Bluetooth is provided. But the IR receiver can be used with other remotes to expand the set of commands.

The remote control in this generation has changed a lot. Now he represents multifunction device with support not only for infrared communication, but also for Bluetooth.

The dimensions of its case are 38 × 124 × 6.3 mm. The device is non-separable, since the power is supplied from the built-in battery. According to the company, its charge lasts for “months” with daily use. Just for him, the Lighting cable is included.

The lower part of the body is made of aluminium. The manufacturer's logo stands out in the center. The front panel is divided into several zones. The top matte is a pressure sensitive touchpad. On it are the hardware buttons "Menu" and "Home". By default, the panel supports four gestures for navigating the set-top box menu, and developers of third-party programs can also receive more accurate information about user actions.

Below we see the volume control buttons, call Siri and "Start / Pause". Around them and on the rest of the panel, a glossy plastic coating is used.

At the top end of the remote control there is an IR transmitter window, and on the opposite side there is a Lighting connector for charging or a branded strap. The latter is a strip of leather with a ring. It is fixed in the connector using special latches.

At the top of the remote control, microphones are installed on both sides for the operation of the Siri system. Note that the remote is equipped with a built-in gyroscope and accelerometer, which will be in demand in games and some applications.

Hardware Features

The fourth generation of the Apple TV set-top box differs significantly from its predecessors in terms of hardware stuffing. The central processor of this model is the dual-core Apple A8, which can be found in the iPhone 6/6 Plus and other devices. In addition to improving overall performance, we also note the presence of the PowerVR Series 6XT GX6450 graphics unit. This allows us to say that the model is able not only to act as a receiver and decoder of a video signal, but also to engage in its own resource-intensive tasks, such as games. Contributes to this and an increase in volume random access memory four times compared to the previous two generations - up to 2 GB. The configuration of flash memory has also changed - now the user can choose its volume from 32 or 64 GB available at the time of preparation of the material.

In addition to the 100Mbps wired network, the device is equipped with a dual-band wireless controller supporting 802.11a/b/g/n/ac protocols. At the same time, the adapter apparently has two antennas, so at 5 GHz the maximum connection speed is 867 Mbps, which will be more than enough for any compatible content in the vast majority of cases. But work at 2.4 GHz is provided only at a connection speed of 144 Mbps due to the usual limitation on the channel width. Additionally, there is a Bluetooth 4.0 controller for connecting the multifunctional control panel and other devices.

The documentation states that in addition to the standard remote control, you can additionally connect two certified MFi (Made for iOS) wireless devices or one such device and one audio device. Unfortunately, we did not have any compatible devices to control, but wireless headset Nokia has successfully made money with Apple TV, including the sound output to the headphones and the reception of Siri commands through the microphone. We even came across sports training apps that supported displaying heart rate information on the TV screen obtained from Apple Watch connected to Apple TV

Despite the widespread use of ultra-high resolution screens in their computers, 4K support was not implemented in this generation of Apple TV. So users will be limited to 1080p and can only be happy about the introduction of support for Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 versus DD 5.1 audio tracks in previous versions, but we would not consider this a significant improvement, given possible sources content.

Apparently, the device has HDMI CEC support, so you can turn the TV on and off in sync with the set-top box's sleep mode, eliminating the need for a TV remote control.

Perhaps the only thing that can be considered a step back in terms of performance is the lack of a separate digital audio output. With past generations of set-top boxes, you could use a dedicated connection to the receiver to listen to music without turning on the TV. However, such a scenario can now be run via HDMI, so in this case it is more about removing the outdated interface than about reducing the capabilities.

We also note the presence of a built-in 11 W power supply. This is about twice as much as in the third generation and is probably the reason for the increase in the height of the player's body. But given the differences in hardware stuffing described above, this is quite expected.

Works new Apple version TV running operating system tvOS, which is based on iOS. At the time of the announcement, the version was 9.0, and we tested with version 9.1 (13U85).

Connection and setup

To get started with the player, just connect an HDMI cable to a TV or receiver, and provide power. Recall that the Apple TV players have a built-in power supply and a regular thin cable to the outlet, which allows you to minimize the number of external elements. It is also advisable to connect a wired network, since Wi-Fi is often difficult to call well-suited for video broadcasts in high resolution. The boot time of the set-top box is less than 30 seconds.

When you turn it on for the first time, you will be prompted to specify the interface language and country (Russian and Russia are present in the lists). Then there are two possibilities - to configure the rest of the parameters through a mobile device with iOS 9.1, or specify it manually.

In the first case, you need to turn on the Bluetooth controller on the iPhone or iPad and bring it to the player. After the device is found, you will be prompted to transfer data over wireless networks and Apple account ID. The second scenario involves entering the necessary data from the on-screen keyboard.

For more detailed customization, there is a familiar gear icon in the menu, behind which you can find eight groups of pages with parameters and a sleep button (it can also be activated from the remote control).

The first of these is the most numerous. Here you can check information about the device (including memory status with the ability to uninstall programs), set the language, region, time, screen saver and sleep mode, enable parental controls, specify privacy settings, enable Siri.

Unlike its predecessors, the fourth generation supports the use of standard accounts iCloud records, iTunes and AppStore. Additionally, interaction with the Game Center and the Home Collection has been implemented. With an Apple ID, you can watch movies and listen to music from the store, install additional programs and interact with cloud services companies. Note that here we are talking about the accounts of Apple itself. In the case of working with applications that require their own registration, this information will be indicated in them.

The sound system settings include the choice of audio output (recall that Bluetooth operation is also allowed, as well as broadcasting to other receivers via AirPlay), multi-channel sound mode, the inclusion of sound effects and clicks. The language of the audio track and subtitles is also indicated here. Unfortunately, in this case, it is not possible to sort out the implementation of working with multichannel sound. However, most potential users do not need this information. We only note that during tests on trailers, our receiver wrote about receiving multi-channel PCM sound, so it is likely that digital tracks are unpacked in the set-top box itself and it will not work to output the original DD track.

As for the video output, you can adjust the resolution (including "computer" options), color space, and display test images to check overscan and color reproduction.

Like its predecessors, the new product supports AirPlay technology for streaming media and desktops from mobile devices and Apple computers. In the settings, you can select the name of the set-top box, enable the content viewing mode from iCloud, set an access password.

For the standard remote control in the menu, you can adjust the speed of movement on the touch panel. Support for the Remote for iOS program has also been preserved. Additionally, the user can program their own IR remotes using the learning mode. The basic set includes four navigation buttons, confirmation and menu call. And in the additional set there are nine more items, including playback control.

So if functions such as rewind or go to the next record are important to you, then you can easily add them to any, including the universal, IR remote control. A very good solution, in our opinion - on the one hand, the laconic regular remote control is preserved, and on the other hand, it is possible to “add buttons”.

On the same page, interaction with equipment via HDMI is configured and another interesting feature is the transfer of volume control to other devices. In this mode, you first teach the player two signals from the standard remote control of your TV or receiver, and then when you press the corresponding hardware buttons on the Apple remote control, it controls the equipment through its IR transmitter.

In the "Programs" section there is an option to enable automatic update programs, as well as some individual settings. In particular, for the basic programs Music, Movies & TV Shows in iTunes, and Computers, you can select the repeat playback mode, video format, and playlist filter.

Network connections are configured in the section of the same name. Here you can specify the settings for wireless connections, configure IP addresses, and also find out the status of the current connection to the network. notice, that wireless adapter turned out to be very good - in one of the points of the apartment, he "saw" more than forty networks, which indirectly indicates his sensitivity. In this case, switching to a wired connection occurs automatically when the appropriate cable is connected.

In the "System" section there are items for updating the firmware, resetting and rebooting the device, as well as electronic versions of documents.

In the vast majority of cases, the user will not have to deal with setting up the set-top box for a long time, and many parameters can be left in the “Auto” position.

Set-top box interface

To navigate in the console menu, use Touchpad. The "Menu" button returns to the previous level, and the "Home" button returns to the start screen of the device.

It includes a context block with trailers, recently viewed content, and other similar information. Below it are icons of applications installed on the device. Out of the box, there are only basic programs here: movies, TV shows and music from iTunes, App Store, photo gallery, search, computers and settings.

The ability to group icons is not available in the current version of the software. However, you can change the order of the icons and display the most used programs above. By pressing "Play/Pause" in edit mode, you can delete the application and all its data. Recall that in the settings section, you can specify the amount of built-in flash memory occupied by programs.

Everything is standard with the first three points - content purchased in the corresponding store is available in them. The App Store on Apple TV has its own catalog of programs, later in the article we will see what is interesting there. Photo Gallery lets you access your iCloud albums. The search works on the company's stores, its information catalogs (for example, allows you to find artists), catalogs installed applications(for example, can find one series in different sources), but not in their own library. Computers lets you access your home media collection on a computer with iTunes installed, including photos, music, and videos.

As for Siri, at the time of writing the article, it did not work with the Russian language. To use it, just press and hold the microphone button on the remote control.

In general, the control system turned out to be quite convenient, although of course you will have to get used to the “blind” use of the touch panel for navigation.

App Store

The set-top box uses special applications and its own App Store. Although, of course, given the proximity to iOS models, it's likely that developers won't spend much time adapting their programs if they're actually interesting for a TV and remote control scenario. The buying process itself is no different from other options in the Apple ecosystem.

The only remark may concern the convenience of searching and obtaining information about programs - the catalog is available only from Apple TV, but not from a computer. In addition, do not forget about the difficult input of text fields with virtual keyboard. Note that when using an account from another region, some text fields of the interface may use a language different from the settings of the set-top box itself.

The catalog has a familiar design with lists of the most popular applications, categories, a section of purchased programs and a search. There are seven main categories - Games, Education, Entertainment, Health & Fitness, Lifestyle, News, Sports. However, Music, Photo & Video and Utilities are also present in the purchased programs section. It seems that the system automatically offers you programs already used on other devices if there is a version for Apple TV.

The exact number of available applications is difficult to judge, but there are no empty spaces on the category pages, although in most cases, almost everything fits on one page. Perhaps only Games and Entertainment can boast of great diversity. The games even have additional subsections (puzzles, "one-button", races). But there are few user ratings at the moment, which further complicates the choice of programs.

Working with multimedia

With the official ways of working with multimedia, at first glance, little has changed. You have access to photos, as well as music, movies and series from the cloud of your account. Additionally, you can access your local iTunes media library on your computer by setting up the Home Sharing feature. Of course, for it to work, the computer must be turned on. Access to the iTunes store is integrated into the system, so buying records is very easy.

In the store catalog you can find many online services, including those that were on the previous version of the console. While the clients themselves are usually free, they may require a subscription to use. In addition, some of them do not work in our country. The last problem can sometimes be solved by using a VPN, but this is still not very convenient. Yes, and still in free broadcasts, advertising screensavers can be found.

The list of supported formats has changed towards better quality - now 1080p60 video with H.264 codec and profile up to HP or MP level 4.2 inclusive can be decoded against 30 fps and profile 4.0 in the third version of the set-top box. A qualitative transition to 4K did not happen this time, although information slipped in the news about the preparation of the fifth generation of the device in the next quarter. HE-AAC (V1) and Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 have been added to audio formats.

AirPlay support is still there, including music, video, and desktop streaming from compatible Apple devices. You can try this option to view "non-native" formats and media sources, but it is much more convenient to use the third-party programs that are present in the Apple TV app store. We will not pretend to be a complete review of useful utilities, but we will briefly describe some of them that have free versions.

First we got HD Player. It allows you to load media files of various formats into the memory of the set-top box from a computer through a browser, but a license to view FullHD files costs $0.99. Since it does not know how to work over the network, there is not much point in the program, in our opinion.

The next option is infuse ~ an elegant video player for all your media. The free version supports popular formats and codecs, and both shared network folders and DLNA servers can serve as a source. However, if you plan to use DD and DTS audio tracks, you will need the PRO version, which costs $9.99 and has several additional features. The utility supports switching audio tracks, as well as displaying subtitles. At the same time, it also handles the BD file format.

Another program with an unusually long name Video Player for Many Movies Formats From NAS Media Server also supports standard network folders and HD video formats in MKV and MP4. This player can decode AC3, but there is no option to select the audio track and subtitles.

OneVideoLite is also capable of providing access to the media library over the network using a variety of protocols, including SMB, AFP and DLNA. All popular video file formats are supported. At the same time, the utility is more similar to a media player in terms of interface design and capabilities. The latter include the choice of audio tracks (DD is output in an unpacked 5.1 format, DTS cannot be called workable in the current version of the program) and subtitles. But to fully support HD video, including 720p, you will need to pay $2.99 ​​for the full version of the utility. The Lite version will help you evaluate the need for this action by providing 2 minutes of work for such files.

For some users at the moment, for a video viewing scenario without being tied to the Apple ecosystem, it may be most convenient to choose a client-server solution from Plex, especially if they already use it (for example, to organize their own videos and photo album). This media server can be run both on a regular PC and on many modern network drives. The Plex client is free to download from the App Store and gives you access to all your recordings.

However, it should be noted that at the moment all the mentioned programs do not provide the comfort expected from a rather expensive household media player during operation. The interface often slows down, the control is inconvenient, there is no “omnivorousness”. And if it comes to providing a certain format for content, then no one bothers to stop at a fairly convenient and versatile mp4, which integrates seamlessly into iTunes.

Games

Separately, it is worth saying a few words about the game. Remembering mobile devices on a similar platform, we can say that the device considered in the article is able to "pull" quite complex and beautiful projects.

However, there is one difficulty here - the overwhelming number mobile games Designed for touch screen use. Adapting to the remote control of the console or gamepads may not be as easy as we would like. In addition, the choice of compatible controllers is currently limited.

Nevertheless, in general, this scenario, in our opinion, has great potential. Especially if Apple can provide perfect compatibility and Plug-and-Play setup of gamepads in arcade projects, and this is quite within its power. Well, it would be nice to solve the issue with a multiplayer game on one panel (recall about the current restrictions on connected external devices). Of course, there is no serious competition for traditional consoles, and even more so for gaming PCs on this platform, but who knows...

At the moment, arcade games with simple controls such as Rayman, traditional Asphalt racing, as well as some "one-button" projects and puzzles are of interest.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that updated version Apple TV has taken the device to the next level. The ability to install programs in combination with a more powerful hardware platform changes a lot in the set-top box. However, the novelty is offered at significantly more high price, so the question of its advantage over the previous generation is not so unambiguous.

When assessing the attractiveness of such an acquisition, there are many factors to consider, including the presence of other Apple solutions and the activity of using the company's media services, the desire to access certain streaming providers, and interest in games.

If the question of price is not worth it and the above amounts for a new gadget do not bother you, then, of course, another new, beautiful and interesting toy with a cool remote control and your favorite logo deserves a place in your home.

For those users who don't have Apple devices, buying an Apple TV remains controversial. On the other hand, it is this fourth version of the set-top box that is quite capable of fully working without the presence of smartphones, tablets or computers of the "fruit" company.

Consider this decision as a universal media player for a file library stored on a home network drive, we would not recommend today. Formally, the situation may change with the release of the corresponding software, however, it may be easier, faster and cheaper to choose a device from the numerous players on the market based on other operating systems.

But the game scenario has good prospects, but everything will be determined by the projects available for this platform.

We invite you to watch our video review of Apple TV, which clearly shows the use of the remote for games, and the design of the novelty is compared with the previous generation Apple TV.

The Russian SMART-TV market is "resting".

The fourth version of Apple's multimedia set-top box was introduced in September last year. It would seem that the engineers of the company from Cupertino, especially for the Russian user, can come up with something new and pleasant for the user? Our market is already full of "smart" TVs.

But Apple wouldn't be Apple if it didn't. one of the best recreational combines in the world. Below is a list of reasons why you'll love the 4th generation Apple TV.

1. If you like a concise interface

Modern SMART-TVs have good functionality, but in terms of convenience, most of them leave much to be desired. It is especially sad from the logic of the software of such “smart” TVs presented on the Russian market.

In the same time software interface Apple TV is fast and intuitive, without causing difficulties and questions. Most apps are similar to their iOS counterparts. Even a child will figure it out, no more “abstruse” Korean interfaces.

2. If you are tired of complicated SMART-TV remotes

No matter how hard Japanese and Korean engineers try, they fail to make an equally convenient remote control for SMART-TV, which is in the box with Apple TV.

A convenient touch panel with a matte surface allows you to control the set-top box with simple swipes, familiar from iOS devices. The minimum number of buttons completes the picture.

In addition, the remote has an accelerometer and a gyroscope, which diversify the gameplay.

The remote control itself is charged via a Lightning cable (included), no more buying batteries. On a single charge, the battery will last several months.

3. If you consume licensed content

Are you a longtime iTunes supporter with a large database of purchased movies and music? Apple TV pulls up all previously purchased media content without any problems. You can also easily and conveniently rent movies and series. No torrents and pirates, everything is transparent and convenient.

It's time to get used to paying for the content you consume. Russia has long been on its way to a civilized media market.

Buy Apple TV and accessories:

• for 32 GB for 13,990 12,990 rubles.
• for 64 GB for 17,990 rubles.
• remote control Apple TV Remote for 5,890 rubles.

4. If you are a music lover in life

The set-top box of the company from Cupertino allows you to conveniently listen to music through a proprietary application. Apple streaming service with cool playlists, new albums and interesting selections on board.

Plus, you can easily connect to the set-top box via Bluetooth. wireless acoustics. Convenient and logical solution.

For those who like to sing themselves, you can download the corresponding applications with the karaoke function. What Russian does not like to sing after or during a noisy feast?

5. If you want to show off your photos or videos

Apple TV's built-in Photo Gallery app lets you access your iCloud albums. It's one thing to show guests pictures taken with iPad screen(even the Pro version) is quite different on a 55-inch TV. In all colors and details.

You can create a slideshow or screensaver from the selected photos.

6. If you want entertainment

The App Store on Apple TV boasts its own catalog of games and apps.

Gamers will find something to play, fans of various videos, TV shows and bloggers' creativity will install RuTube, Youtube applications, TV series fans will find branded applications of ivi.ru and Amediateka video services.

All in all, Apple TV is a fun way to spend an evening with family or friends.

7. If you are a TV series fan

The presence of applications of the most important players of Runet to provide access to huge databases of films and series is undoubtedly pleasing. This allows you to comfortably watch the best Russian and foreign TV shows on the day of the premiere (season or series).

How about watching Game of Thrones in the original with subtitles?

8. If you are a game lover

All gamepads marked MFI (made for iPhone) can be connected to Apple TV 4. Simultaneous operation with multiple Bluetooth controllers is supported.

In other words, you can conveniently "hack" into various video games. Yes, of course, most of them are casual, but even they allow you to have an interesting time.

9. If you have your own movie database

If you have a large collection of films on your computer, you can broadcast it to a TV without any problems (read without copying to “flash drives”). Just set up Home Sharing to access your local iTunes media library on your computer.

In other words, you can stream the screen with sound from your computer without any problems.

Decision for many years to come

It would be nice if Apple removed certain software restrictions (for example, the size of the downloaded application should be no more than 200 MB). Then the developers would easily fill the App Store with interesting and useful applications. I am sure that future tvOS updates will expand its capabilities.

The Russian user is still forced to wait for the localization of Siri. I think it's also a matter of time.

In general, the main chips are in perfect harmony and work with the Apple ecosystem. We received one of the most advanced and convenient set-top boxes on the Russian market. Apple TV 4th generation is a great multimedia solution for the home for many years with blackjack and updates.

Equipment from a well-known American brand is always in demand, which is not surprising. After all, it combines original design and an unlimited range of functionality. Now let's figure out what Apple TV is and how it works. As a result, each user will understand whether it makes sense to spend money on purchasing this gadget.

What is Apple TV

In short, Apple TV is a device designed to broadcast media content from iTunes Store and other online services. Why do users buy this gadget? Apple TV will turn the most ordinary TV into a smart device. Additional functionality, which will be available to the user immediately after connection:

• access to a library of high-quality video content stored on special resources;
• broadcasting multimedia content to the TV screen from smartphones, tablets, players, as well as other devices running operating systems Windows systems and Mac OS
• access to an impressive repository of audio tracks, podcasts, images, video games.

The Apple TV set-top box works on the principle of streaming media content. Latest Models devices of this type have a limited amount of internal memory. Therefore, content must be stored in the cloud or on removable storage media: flash drives, external hard drives.

To watch a movie or series, it is not necessary to buy content. The "Rent" function is available to users. Therefore, your balance will be charged solely for viewing. This is a good way to save money.

The gadget is equipped with a built-in adapter for wireless Internet connection. Therefore, after connecting the set-top box, the user will be able to connect the TV to the wireless home network, even if it didn't support Wi-Fi initially. Additional wires, adapters or adapters are not required to set up the connection.

Apple introduces a lot of useful technologies into the work of its devices. For example, AirPlay, with which you can quickly set up the synchronization of the TV with a computer or laptop. The control will be carried out by a remote control, which is included in the basic package of the set-top box. The remote control can also be used as a computer mouse.

Analyzing Apple features TV performance cannot be ignored. UHD and Full HD content plays without any delay. Multi-channel sound will make watching movies even more intense. 8 GB flash memory acts as a buffer for streaming data. The devices in question are equipped with powerful processor Apple A5.

Connection process

Modern TV models are equipped with an HDMI interface, through which the set-top box is connected. The cord is not included in the basic package of Apple TV. Exists alternative way equipment connections - component cable.

Connect the set-top box to a power outlet using the power cable, and then connect it to the TV with a component or HDMI cable. The initial synchronization setting is carried out by the remote control. Connect to home WiFi networks to sign in to iCloud. If you haven't created a profile before, register a new account.

Subsequent settings are carried out according to the same principle as in the case of other gadgets from Apple. To achieve the purest sound while watching movies or listening to music, you can connect an audio system. Acoustics is connected by fiber optic cable. Insert the plug into the interface marked "Toslink".

Use as a TV set-top box

The device operates under the iOS operating system. The desktop of the set-top box is practically no different from the iPod or iPhone. Practice shows that users have no problems with an intuitive interface. All desktop icons are signed. The only inconvenience is text input from the remote control. It does not have a keyboard. Therefore, typing is carried out by selecting letters on the joystick, the keyboard is displayed.

There are several ways to solve the problem described above. You can connect a wireless keyboard or smartphone to the set-top box. Previously, on the iPhone, iPad, you need to install the Remote application. You can download this program from Apple Store. What else can this app be used for? In addition to entering text, you can use your smartphone as a game joystick.

Movies music and photos

Extended functionality is a significant advantage, but most often the Apple TV set-top box is used to listen to music and watch movies from the iTunes Store, Apple Music, as well as other services. Owners of this device have access to a store with Russian-language films. The interface automatically adjusts to the size of the TV.

As mentioned earlier, users will be able to purchase films, as well as rent them (viewing will be available for 2 days). Renting is the best solution that allows you to watch new films in excellent quality online at an affordable price. By activating the "family sharing" feature, you will have access to content that has been purchased by your family members.

You can download online movie theater apps from the Apple Store to watch movies for free. Music songs are played from the iTunes library. Activate the Sharing feature to use iTunes on your laptop, tablet, smartphone, and TV at the same time.

The Apple Music service allows you to transform the set-top box into a player with a multimillion-dollar library of musical compositions. Users will be able to collect their own collection of hits. The set-top box can also be used to listen to the radio. In total, more than 200 radio stations are available, including Apple's signature frequency - Beats 1. Broadcasting 24/7, tracks from the best DJs, current music, expert opinion when choosing songs - this is not a complete list of the advantages of this radio station.

The Apple set-top box allows you to watch movies, photos and home videos from the cloud. iCloud storage. Subscribe to updates from other users to see the latest photos of your friends and acquaintances.

Why Apple TV is better than analogues

If we compare Apple TV with gadgets, set-top boxes and game consoles, then all these devices provide a narrower range of functionality. An easy-to-use touchpad gives you access to Apple-branded services that maximize your options.

Many are wondering if Apple TV is really much more efficient than Smart TV? In terms of functionality, the set-top box loses a little to “smart” TVs. However, if we evaluate the price / quality ratio, then here Apple TV is the undisputed winner. It is cheaper to buy a set-top box and connect it to a TV than to upgrade and buy new equipment. We are talking about savings in the amount of 20-30 thousand rubles.

Many providers offer their own set-top boxes to their customers, which provide access to exclusive content, as well as expand the functionality of the TV. A subscription for 1 month will cost much more than the price for a particular movie or series. Keep this feature in mind as it is a great opportunity to save money. There will be no charge for inactivity.

An additional advantage will be the availability of other equipment from Apple: iPhone, iPad, iPod, etc. Convenient Wi-Fi synchronization makes sharing files between all your devices even easier. Additional wires and cables are not required. Separately, it is worth noting that games are available on Apple TV. A tablet or smartphone can act as a joystick.

Note.

What is Apple TV? It is worth noting that many who have even seen and touched this box have no idea about its functional features and capabilities. Some believe that this is a kind of set-top box, others - that this is a player for playing various multimedia files.

In short, both are right. Apple TV is a truly multifunctional device that helps solve the most various tasks.

What is an Apple TV for?

Speaking in a simple and accessible language, Apple TV is a device that is designed to display data from various resources, including iTunes and other sources, on the screen.

It is worth noting that thanks to Apple TV it is possible to make a real smart device out of the simplest TV. Among other things, there are several main advantages:

• There is always access to the highest quality video on special resources.
• It is possible to get access to a huge number of trailers, music, clips.
• With this set-top box, you can display any images and videos from your smartphones and other Apple devices on the TV screen.
• The prefix has a function for displaying images from the drive, as well as for storing any information. However, you can simply pay to watch the video and not store it on your device.

Outputting an image to a TV through Apple TV

Thanks to the ability to receive a WI-FI signal, you do not need to use wires, which greatly simplifies the work with the device. For full functioning, you only need to install special software, as well as synchronize the set-top box with your TV. To use the device, you can use a conventional remote control.

How to connect Apple TV?

Connecting the device is quite simple:

• You only need to connect the set-top box to the TV using a special cable.
• Then you should connect your Apple TV to the network and make the necessary settings.

• Once you connect to the internet, you will be able to use iCloud.
• All other actions (management, selection of modes, functions) will be clear to every owner of Apple TV and apple devices.

In addition, you can always connect (using a fiber optic cable) an audio system to improve the sound.

Ready to give up cable television and get rid of the flood of ads? With Apple TV, you can rent or buy high-quality movies, listen to podcasts, watch Netflix, Hulu, sports channels, view photos and listen to music from your computer, all from the comfort of your couch. Learn how to set up and use Apple TV in this article.

Steps

Part 1

Apple TV connection

Unpack your Apple TV. Install it next to the TV, you will also need a nearby outlet and, if you have wired Internet, then a network cable.

• Don't stack your Apple TV on top of other appliances, and don't stack anything on your Apple TV either. This may cause the equipment to overheat and cause signal interference.

1. Connect an HDMI cable. Connect one end of the cable to your Apple TV (connector on the back of the set-top box), and connect the other end to your TV.

   • Note: This article describes direct connection to a TV. If you are using a receiver, please refer to the instructions for use. The receiver will be an intermediate link between the Apple TV and the TV.
   • Apple TV has a TOSLink digital audio output. If you use this standard, then connect one end of the cable to the Apple TV output and the other to the TV input.

2. Connect the Internet cable. If you have wired internet, connect it to your Apple TV.

   • Apple TV has built-in 802.11 Wi-Fi that you can use to connect to a wireless network.

3. Connect the power cable. Once all cables are connected, plug your Apple TV into power.

   Turn on the TV. Immerse yourself in the world of Apple TV! On your TV remote, switch to the HDMI input that your Apple TV is connected to.

   • If this is the first Apple TV connection, the setup screen should appear. If it does not appear, make sure the cables are connected correctly and the correct signal source is selected.

   Part 2

   Setting up your Apple TV

   1. Get familiar with the Apple Remote. All operations will have to be carried out using this remote control.

      • The black ring is used to move the cursor up, down, right, left.
      • The gray button in the center of the circle is used for selection.
      • Pressing the "Menu" button brings up the menu or returns to the previous screen.
        • Press and hold the "Menu" button to return to the main menu.
        • Press and hold the "Menu" button while watching a movie to access subtitles.
      • The "Play/Pause" button is only used for pause and playback.
      • Press and hold the Menu button and down arrow to reset your Apple TV. During the reset, the status light on the set-top box should flash.
      • To create a pair between the remote control and the set-top box, press and hold the "Menu" right arrow button for 6 seconds. This will allow you to control the set-top box only from this remote and disable other remotes.
      • The App Store has a free app called "Remote" that takes full advantage of the Apple Remote. If you have an iPhone or iPad, this will be a great addition to your Apple TV experience.
      • Apple Remote not is universal. You will need to use the TV or receiver remote control to change the volume on the TV and other functions.

   2. Connect to a wireless network. Using the prompts on the screen, select the network settings. If your wireless network hidden from others, then enter the name of the network. After selecting the network, enter the password (if available) and save the settings by clicking on the "Done" button.

      • If you are not using DHCP then you will need to enter the IP address, subnet mask, router address and DNS.

   3. Set up the Home Sharing feature. Use the Home Sharing feature to access music and video files on your computer.

      • Set up the Home Sharing feature. In the main menu, go to settings and select "Home Sharing". Enter your Apple ID and password.
      • Set up Home Sharing in iTunes. From the File menu, choose Home Sharing > Include Home Sharing. Enter the same Apple ID and password that you use with your Apple TV.

   Part 3

   Enjoy the content

   1. Watch a huge number of movies! FROM using iTunes on Apple TV, you have access to the latest movies in 1080p (v3) high definition or 720p (v2) resolution. You can watch the movie, rent it or buy it for your collection.

      • While virtually all content on iTunes is viewable, many movies are not available for rent in the first weeks after release. They can only be purchased, but a little later it will be possible to rent. Sometimes films are only available for rental or purchase.
      • Individual TV shows can only be purchased, although you can subscribe to the entire season. The current TV series on iTunes is usually delayed by a day or two from normal broadcast.

   2. Display mode from your iOS devices. With AirPlay, you can play movies and photos stored on your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch on TV. You can also use your TV as a giant screen for your iPhone 4S or iPad.

   3. Use "Home Collection". With this feature, you can browse and play your entire iTunes library as well as all your playlists and even use the Genius feature. You can view photos using iPhoto on your computer, or simply transfer photos to display on your Apple TV Home Sharing.

      • To access music, movies, photos, and videos on your computer, go to the Apple TV main menu and go to Computers. Any type of content available on the computer will be displayed on the TV.
      • To access all music stored in iCloud using iTunes Match, click the orange Music button on the main screen menu.