Configuration information found in the developer's beta of iOS 4.2 that was recently released has confirmed that the next-generation Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) TV will be running the same iOS operating system (OS) as Apple's smartphone and iPad tablet. With the iOS name bestowed relatively recently, at least one recent development does seem to suggest that Apple's plan is to unify its mobile and appliance platforms under iOS.

For example, the 4.2 iOS update of the iPad changes the current rotation lock toggle to "mute" functionality--exactly like in the iPhone. Certainly, it would have been much easier to develop one OS rather than to try maintaining a disparate number of incompatible system codes.

As noted by Ars Technica, the revelation that Apple TV runs iOS does bring with it some interesting possibilities--the primarily one being that it could be target for iPhone jailbreakers. Of course, there is nothing for now to suggest that the Apple TV could even run any third-party applications; though there are ample rumors and speculations on that front. Personally, I would not be surprised if app compatibility were to be announced when the Apple TV ships, or further down the road.

For more on this story:
- check out this article at TUAW
- check out this article at Ars Technica
- check out this article at MacRumors

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