On September 9, 2015, Apple announced the fourth generation Apple TV. It is the first major update to the platform since the release of the second generation Apple TV on September 1, 2010. Tim Cook took the stage and said “The future of TV is apps”. He also stated that the Apple TV needed a modern OS. While following the form factor of the previous 2nd and 3rd generation models, it is slightly taller in size. Featuring a new touch remote allowing swipe-to-select functionality instead of the old remote’s arrow button, with integrated Siri support, and motion sensor. The Siri button on the remote allows several functions, including searching across providers for content, accessing additional metadata, and video/audio controls. The 4th generation also uses a new operating system, tvOS, with an associated app store allowing download of third-party apps for video, audio, games, and other content – initially from a limited range of providers on release, with others able to release further apps using new APIs allowing them to do so. A requirement of these apps and games is that they all must include interfacing with the new touchpad-enabled Siri remote. Craig Federighi said that tvOS is 95% based on iOS 9 with the interface and APIs being tweaked to support the big screen.
Apple Tag Line
Siri Remote with Touch surface, apps and games, and a completely new experience.
Netflix, Hulu, TV+, HBO Max, Disney+, Peacock TV, Pluto TV, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, Crackle, The streaming options go on and on with this Apple TV as do the music, movies, tv shows and yes apps!