Apple TV will be the next best product; major cable and satellite companies are in for major disruption

Apple confirmed earlier reports about a new a powerful fourth-generation Apple TV. The company just announced the new version during its September press event in San Francisco. Featuring an updated user experience and focus on gaming, Apple's TV is expected to create a major disruption across cable and satellite TV. Will the company be able to deliver?

Apple TV will come with a new OS called the "tvOS," offering new developer tools and user experience. It will also feature Siri support, voice control, universal search and the Apple TV APP Store. The Store will enable gaming on the TV's platform, expanding the big screen's functionality. Also included in the package are motion control and touchpad features. The remote will allow users to fast forward or rewind programs through the touch-sensitive trackpad. It is also possible to move it around when playing games -- thanks to the gyroscope and accelerometer.

"It's the golden age of television," Apple CEO Tim Cook said. "Our vision for TV is simple and perhaps a little provocative. We believe the future of television is apps." The new Apple TV is a huge leap from the previous model featuring more powerful features like 64-bit A8 processor, 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0. These are crucial for Apple's newfound interested on gaming on the Apple TV. What is even better is that it is just "just 10 millimeters taller" according to Apple's Eddy Cue. The product will be available starting October with the 32GB priced at US$149 [AU$214] and 64GB priced at US$199 [AU$286].

Previously, 9to5Mac's Mark Gurman said that Apple may soon disrupt the traditional bundle offered by satellite and cable providers. Should Apple proceed successfully with this venture than it is possible that it can disrupt stocks of cable and satellite companies. Likewise, Apple can also pose as a threat to big media content companies whose main profit stream comes from "status quo big cable bundle."

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