Apple TV too little for too much

Steve Jobs unveiled the final version of Apple TV a couple days ago at Macworld and I’m not really impressed. The sleek $300 device syncs to your iTunes library and allows for streaming video to your TV. The concept is awesome but the problem comes down to price and features – a $400 XBox 360 does the same thing and also plays video games and Slingbox has a new unit coming out for $200. Also, the Apple TV only outputs in high definition, which will reduce the market of the product. On the plus side, the device does include a 40GB harddrive, looks sexy, and will undoubtedly have a slick Apple interface. I have no idea if the device supports DIVX or if you’ll need to install some custom programs ala the 360 in order to stream your backup movies.

It’s clear that Apple has goals at getting into your living room via video content delivery on iTunes and now the Apple TV. Microsoft’s already in my living room via the XBox and I already have all the media connections plus next gen gaming. At CES, Billy Gates announced the 360 will soon be capable of streaming TV over IP. So I’m going to say that this is one case where Microsoft is doing a much better job than Apple at their goal. Why would I pay $300 for a slightly slicker device when I can pay a little more for great gaming and better accessibility or a little less to get the same thing? Apple needs to do something to make this product stand out in the crowd.

Happy Wednesday!

-Bob