The Apple TV: The device that doesn't start with "i"

In the aftermath of the iPhone announcement, it's easy to forget about Apple's other big product launch, the Apple TV. As expected, Apple announced a release date for the device (next month) along with updated specs and a partnership with Paramount pictures. The Apple TV is pretty much exactly what we knew it would be all along: a 802.11 b/g/n box with 40 GB of storage that streams video and audio from your PC or Mac to your television set. While that's all well and good, 40 GB is not that much storage (especially given the $299 price point) and the max resolution of 720p leaves a bit to be desired (though what did you expect from a wireless device?).

Apple also quietly updated its AirPort hardware, as expected, adding draft 802.11n functionality to the AirPort Extreme basestation, though suspiciously, AirPort cards have yet to be updated with 802.11n support.

For more on Apple's new products:
- see the official site for the Apple TV
- and the AirPort Extreme site