May 17, 2007

Is Apple TV the Next Big Thing or Just Another Fad?

We've pointed you to a few Apple TV reviews lately that are pretty much middle of the road. Now we find an article at E-CommerceTimes.com that is a pretty typical analysis for a first generation product. The article starts out:

For all the bluster surrounding Apple TV upon its release, many critics have complained that the first version of the device falls flat in many ways, such as lousy HD support, a monogamous and limiting marriage to iTunes, and an inability to surf iTunes via the TV interface. Has Apple failed in this foray into the living room, or will a real hit come along after early adopters have had their say?

The article makes a really good point about why Apple fans would want an Apple TV:

Although Apple is renowned for its ability to create plenty of the 'wow,' it may have a tougher go of it this time around. One glaring problem is self-competition: the latest wave of iPod docks, such as the DLO HomeDock, offer remote navigation, allowing you to watch your iTunes movies and TV shows without leaving the comfort of your sofa. Such product beg the question: Why bother with all the networking hassle to use Apple TV, essentially a stationary iPod at this point, if you already have an iPod and a dock?

Over all the article's focus isn't to bash the Apple TV but to question if it's the type of media streamer consumers are looking for right now. Overall it's a decent read that you'll want to check out.

At E-CommerceTimes.com

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