Apple TV - Live Streaming and Syncing from your iTunes Library to Your TV - Hands on Apple Review

In 2006, Apple officially announced the first version of Apple TV. The project was originally called iTV when it was announced to the public. The original design of iTV demonstrated a modified version of Apple's Front Row interface and incorporated the Apple remote to control the device. During the first quarter of 2007, Apple began accepting pre-orders for Apple TV and begun shipping the device in March. In 2008, Steve Jobs announced a firmware upgrade for Apple TV that would soon change the way of streaming media to your entertainment centers. The upgrade no longer required an iTunes Library for media, but featured streaming services such as Flickr and Youtube, which allowed users to access content directly from the internet. The upgrade was made because Apple's original play was to make Apple TV an accessory for iTunes, but large complaints due to lack of content led to a redesign.

The second and current Apple TV, 2.0, was announced in September of 2010. Apple's plan was to reignite the original Apple TV, but include features that would win over their customers once again. The second generation added Netflix, HD Video streaming, and a large number of enhancements that improved the first generation. 

Due to the hype of Apples new Apple TV, I decided to purchase it and try it out myself. Over the Holidays, Apple TV was sold out at Best Buy, which owns the exclusive rights to distribute Apple TV and Apple stores. I finally got my hands on one and I assure you that it was well worth the wait.

First off, I must say I love the way Apple packages their products. The packaging was so neat and tidy! They make sure that you only get what you need and they don't waste packaging supplies.

The setup it a fairly easy process. Once you connect your Apple TV up to your HDTV via an HDMI cable, you're pretty much ready to use it. All you have to do is log in with your iTunes account and you can begin watching Netflix and Youtube Videos. The setup runs automatically and doesn't really require you to do much.

If you want to connect your Apple TV to your computer, your Apple TV will generate a passcode that you must enter in iTunes on the computer you would like to connect. Apple TV currently lets a single device sync or stream from up to five different iTunes accounts.

In conclusion, Apple TV 2nd Generation is an amazing and portable device. Its so small that it can be easily hidden, but do incredible things. Once its connected through your wifi network, you could move it anywhere in your house and still get that stunning media feed.