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Could Apple TV become a games platform?

Apple files an intriguing new patent

Could Apple TV become a games platform?
According to a new report over on Cnet, Apple has filed for a patent for a Wii-style remote control for its Apple TV system.

A schematic reference was included in the patent, which shows various Apple-esque symbols - including one that’s remarkably similar to the iPhone’s App Store icon.



It’s a common opinion that, for such a feature rich and powerful device, the Apple TV is woefully underused. Watching a streamed or digital media video in the living room is old news these days, and a huge variety of devices will allow you to plug in a flash drive and watch HD content.

But this new ‘remote wand for controlling the operations of a media system’ could have a variety of uses, and Apple’s already proved its ability to distribute affordable, entertaining content digitally on both Apple TV and, more importantly, the iPhone.

There aren’t many iPhone gamers who - despite the low resolution of the games - wouldn’t want to play a few of those App Store titles on their TV, and get the most use from their expensive and underused Apple TV system.

Even better would be a big brother to the iPhone residing in the living room and on HD televisions. Speaking purely speculatively, of course, this could be some serious competition for the Wii.

Yes. Spanner's his real name. And, yes, he's heard that joke before.