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Rumor: New Apple TV Takes Aim At Home Gaming
Enthusiast site 9to5Mac reports that sources with knowledge of the product have told them that the new fourth-generation Apple TV is looking to compete in the TV gaming world, which would put it into more active competition against the likes of Microsoft’s Xbox and Sony’s PlayStation systems.
The site says Apple’s plan is to focus on the convenience of downloading games directly from the Apple store, and that the new Apple TV will support Bluetooth game controllers with pressure-sensitive buttons and joysticks. We’re likely to find out soon about the alleged details, as Apple has an event planned for September 9th, at which time we expect new Apple TV details as well as information on the iPhone 6S.
[Source: 9to5Mac]
Our Take:
Apple has a huge built-in audience of mobile gamers to tap into, but if the details are true regarding its plans to tackle home gaming in a more aggressive way, the company has an uphill battle to lure existing home players away from their platform of choice. Those existing player bases may already have spent money on a recent new system like PS4 or Xbox One, as well as accompanying online services like PS Plus or Xbox Live Gold. In addition, without some strong announced support for Apple TV from third-party publishers, it's hard to imagine existing players jumping ship. Meanwhile, the existing audience of more casual players on phone and tablet may be reticent to suddenly embrace home gaming as a hobby.
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