Hands on with Apple TV

Computerworld has a decent and lengthy look at the new Apple TV. Overall the review is positive but brings up an important point:

One thing potential buyers should keep in mind is that Apple TV is designed to work directly only with audio, video and podcasts managed in an iTunes library using iTunes software. In other words, despite its many virtues, iTunes is not for those who plan to acquire video and audio from other stores. Put differently, Apple TV directly supports only the formats that iTunes supports, although there are a variety of tools, including Apple’s QuickTime Pro and Techspansion’s Visual Hub, that can be used to convert video.

The article finishes up by saying:

The Apple TV is focused on one goal: Bringing iTunes-based digital media stored on your computer to your TV. It achieves that goal quite well and simply with a device that is simple to set up and a delight to use.
Apple TV, however, isn't for everybody. For one thing, its $299 price tag isn’t exactly inexpensive. And you are largely limited to using the iTunes store, which has a large and loyal following. However, videos are available from a variety of other sources that aren't supported by Apple TV and the iTunes software.

Still, if you want easy access to music and video from iTunes, as well as your personal digital images, Apple TV is an excellent choice.

Be sure to check out the complete Apple TV review.

At Computerworld.com

Compare Prices: Apple TV

April 3, 2007

Hands on with Apple TV