Image: Apple
Apple will host a fancy media event in San Francisco next week where the company is expected to introduce the latest generation iPhones, likely called the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus. You and everyone else on the internet already know that. But what you might not know is that the Apple TV, the company's streaming device (the current model is pictured here), may play a much bigger role in the day's events than was first assumed.Several reports have emerged in recent days suggesting Apple will use the September 9 event to announce a significantly upgraded Apple TV. And we're not talking faster processors or reduced weight either, but a complete re-think of what the Apple TV actually is and what the Apple TV has the potential to become.TechCrunch recently reported that the next version of the Apple TV will see Apple move head first into console gaming for the first time since 1995's Pippin. The new device will come with a larger, controller with multiple physical buttons that could be used to control traditional, console-like games. More excitingly, the controller is said to be motion-sensitive, opening up the possibility of Nintendo Wii-like experiences.This push into gaming will also reportedly be supported by a dedicated Apple TV App Store, according to multiple reports, including TechCrunch and 9to5Mac, with independent, third-party developers able to create apps for the platform for the first time ever. Just as the App Store completely changed our perception of the iPhone in July 2008, expect an Apple TV App Store to do much the same for Apple's little hockey puck.Multiple reports also indicate that Siri, Apple's digital assistant, will play a major role in the next Apple TV, making it easier to search for movies and TV shows than trying to peck out "c-h-o-p-p-e-d" using an on-screen virtual keyboard.One week to go!
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