Apple ‘iTV’ Targets Couch Potatoes

Apple Computer next year will release a paperback-novel-size device that can be plugged into a television to wirelessly transfer video and other content to the set from a nearby Apple computer or Web connection, The New York Times reports.

The announcement was made at Apple’s “It’s Showtime” event held Tuesday in San Francisco. Apple also announced a new, upgraded line of iPods, as well as second-generation iPod nanos and iPod shuffles.

Apple’s Steve Jobs

The Cupertino, Calif.-based firm has temporarily dubbed the upcoming device to link Mac computers and televisions the “iTV,” according to the Times. It will be available for sale sometime next year for $299, the Times reports.

“Apple’s in your den now, right?” said Steve Jobs, Apple chief executive, MacCentral reports via Computerworld.com. “iTunes on a Mac or PC. Apple’s in your living room with iTV, driving your big flat-screen TV. Apple’s in your car, with over 70 percent of the 2007 model cars offering iPod connectivity. And of course, Apple’s in your pocket, with iPods.”

There are already many multifunctional devices that allow their users to connect to TVs to display video, such as Microsoft’s Xbox and Sony’s PlayStation gaming systems, but Apple’s entrance into the space is sure to draw the attention of its many loyal iPod users and could help the firm quickly build a customer base for the product.

The iTV interface is based on Apple’s Front Row software, according to the Times.

Related Link:

• Apple Touts New iPods, iTunes Movie Downloads

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