Apple TV HD Movies
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Apple TV HD movies offer a convenient entertainment option from a trusted name in computers and media.
The Basics of Apple TV
The core of Apple TV is a sleek white box connecting to your television. With dimensions of 7.7 by 7.7 by 1.1 inches, it weighs in at just over two pounds. The system also comes with a remote that is your key to accessing new content. Its design will be familiar to iPod users, with a simple circular button.
No computer is required to use the system, although connecting one will allow for optimal use of all features. It is compatible with both Macs and PCs. In order to make the most of your viewing experience, you will need a high-definition-enabled television and a surround sound audio system. Visit the technical specifications page for more information on specific components such as ports and interfaces.
Apple TV is available with a 40 GB or a 160 GB hard drive. This allows for storage of up to 50 hours of film in the case of the 40 GB model, or 200 hours with the 160 GB drive. Of course, the total movie capacity will depend on how much other media content you choose to store. In early 2008, along with an update of the system, Apple dropped the retail price from its original $299 to $229.
Enjoying Apple TV HD Movies
Getting Started
Apple TV's high-definition movie selection is part of its unique rental service. The system allows you to access the iTunes movie store without a computer. Using the remote, you can easily browse by genre, popularity, or format. The service has deals with all major movie theaters, so you will find a wide selection of top movies. Movie poster images help you identify interesting films at a glance.
Details
- You will need to create an iTunes account in order to purchase content from the site. Some users have difficulty submitting their login ID and password using only the remote. However, once submitted, it can be saved indefinitely.
- High-definition movie rentals feature Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.
- HD new releases cost $4.99 and other HD titles are $3.99, which represents an additional charge of a dollar over the cost of renting a non-high-definition release. Look for special promotions, such as featured titles, for discounted rental rates.
- Click on the preview button to try out a movie before you rent it.
- Once you have rented a movie, you have 30 days to watch it. However, after you start watching it, there is a 24-hour time limit before it disappears. A Rented Movies menu helps you keep track of deadlines for watching your films.
Downloads
Wait time before you can start viewing your downloaded movie varies greatly depending upon the speed of your connection. For instance, if you can download at 6 Mbps, you can be watching a film in less than one minute. However, if you are connecting at only 768 Kbps, it will take as long as eight hours to download the video.
More than HD
Although Apple TV HD movies are a definite selling point for the service, you can do much more with your box and remote. Use the service's online capabilities to watch your favorite podcasts and visit YouTube. If you've missed the latest episode of your favorite television show, you can purchase it from iTunes. Connect a computer to your television to access video files and photos on a larger screen. When it comes to music, you can listen to your existing collection or download new tracks and music videos from the iTunes store.
If you're interested in a critical look at the product as a whole, technology site CNET offers a comprehensive review of the Apple TV.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 1,984 times. This page was last modified 02:17, 1 August 2008.
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