Review: Apple TV, Take Two

The Apple TV failed to capture a big audience when it debuted in 2007. But the recent Take Two software update, which largely severs the cord between the set-top box and the computer, expands the Apple TV’s functionality enough to merit a long, hard look at its newfound capabilities.

Apple TV Take 2: an in-depth review (part 1): what's new

Apple is keeping itself busy. Along with the 10.5.2 update to Mac OS X Leopard and a new reference release of Aperture 2.0, the company quietly made available the free new "Take Two" software upgrade for Apple TV on Tuesday. Here's a look at how Appl...

iLounge releases iPod + iPhone book 4; offers free tutorials for iPhone, iPod, iTunes, and Apple TV

Section: iPod + iTunes, iTunes, iPod, iPhone + Communications, iPhone Accessories It can be frustrating when you purchase a device and don’t find the answers to the questions you have in the accompanying manual. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has faced this with my various Apple devices. Scouring the internet was extremely helpful, but I wish I had all that information in one place. If you’re an iPod, iPhone, iTunes or Apple TV user, you’ll be happy to know there is a free book available that answers most of the commonly asked questions. Every year, iLounge publishes a book that focuses on the questions readers have for their Apple devices. You can get this book as a free download for your computer, iPhone, iPod or other small portable devices. The book size will vary depending on which one you download. The one I downloaded was 268 pages, which I have it stored on my 17” MacBook Pro and have also printed it out. I’ve since spent a lot of time flipping though it to read many of the reviews, design retrospectives, and tips that were included. Many pictures are included with this book, and it’s filled with valuable information. The book is divided into the following sections: Foreward + iSnapshot - When you check out the forward, you will meet the people behind this fabulous book and get a chance to know a little about them. Sneak Peeks - You’ll find over 20 exclusive sneak peaks in this section, giving the reader a chance to get a first look at a variety of accessories for their Apple devices. Products such as Scosche soundScreen, Capdase Crystal Case, and Case Mate Art Deco Cases are featured. iPhone Baby - In this section, written by Jeremy and Christina Horwitz, you get the opportunity to find out the variety of ways they used the iPhone when they were expecting a baby. From surfing the web with Safari, creating bookmarks, locating maps, and snapping photos, the iPhone was extremely helpful. Design Retrospective - If you want to know what makes a product so successful, this is the section to check out. You get a behind the scenes look from the concept to the finished product. Various companies, such as V-Moda, are featured. (V-Moda is the maker of Vibe Duo, “the first headphone in which the external parts are entirely aluminum, fabric, and gold plating to the housing plug.” V-Moda’s products look like jewelry.) All Things iPod, iPhone + Apple TV - This is my favorite section and is chock full of information listing the variety of services available for your device along with answer common asked questions. iPod + iPhone Book 4 will guide you through the installation process, filling your device, and help you with maintenance and repair. The Report Card - Since 2001, iLounge has reviewed over 1,200 Apple devices. You can see whether they passed or failed by reviewing the report card. Design the Next iPhone Contest - There are a lot of talented designers, and it’s apparent when you flip through this section. iLounge allows you to take a peek at reader submitted designs for an advanced iPhone. My favorite is “Heir Apparent.” Checking out some of the designs featured makes the current iPhone look underwhelming. iPod and iPhone Photo Galleries - People actually use those cameras to take pictures, and now we have proof. In this section, you have had the opportunity to take a peek at some of the gorgeous photos that were captured with Apple devices. 150 iTunes Answers - This is another favorite. I use iTunes daily while I’m working out of the home and when I’m on the go. My songs, and sometimes movies, are stored in my iPod. Pictures are included with the tutorial, which I found extremely helpful. If you are a heavy iTunes user like myself, you might be in this section for a while. Backstage + Closing the Curtain - Backstage gives us a chance to check out the cool gadgets, games, and computers that the editor’s staff liked. I saw some of my favorites, such as Call of Duty 4, which I play on my Xbox. I also discovered gadgets I want to buy, such as the Studio RTA’s A-Line Computer Desk. Index to Advertisers - If you are looking for a specific advertiser in the iPod +iPhone Book 4, you can get directly to the section by checking out this handy index. I really enjoyed checking out the iPod + iPhone Book 4, and I spent more time reading it than I expected. It’s chock full of gadgets, tips, and lots of helpful information. Don’t forget that it’s a free download, so log onto iLounge, download, and enjoy.  Full Story » | Written by Opal Tribble for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »

Well timed Apple TV 2.0.2 update because iTunes is now offering PBS content

Section: Apple, Apple News, Updates, iPod + iTunes, Apple TV, iTunes, Mac + Computers, SoftwareApple has just released an update for Apple TV.  This update, 2.0.2, is the second one since the Apple TV Take 2, but there is no word yet on any big changes besides the normal bug fixes.  It appears that this update came at a perfect time as you can now use your newly updated Apple TV to buy PBS content from iTunes.  Also quietly released, this new content includes video, as well as teacher guides, from stations such as WGBH, KQED, and WETA.  There are also some NOVA episodes up, making this a great resource for teachers. There are over 200 tracks up on iTunes including interviews and radio shows, so feel free to go check them out and let us know how it is.  Also be sure to tell us if you find anything new or interesting in the Apple TV update. Full Story » | Written by Josh Holat for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »

Bugs & Fixes: Apple TV network and authorization hassles

Is your Apple TV not showing up in iTunes? Are you getting error messages when you attempt to sync your Apple TV? Ted Landau covers these troubles in the latest installment of Bugs & Fixes.

Hands on with Apple TV, Take Two

Apple's update to the Apple TV set-top box features numerous new features, including movie rentals and a revamped user interface. Christopher Breen has downloaded the update and has an in-depth look.