New Apple TV is not just a set-top box, it is also a gaming console

The Apple TV’s design remains unchanged but it is thicker and now comes with a remote that doubles as a game controller. TREVOR TAN

SAN FRANCISCO - The Apple TV set-top box has finally gotten an update for the first time in three years.

During the special media event held at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, Apple chief executive Tim Cook touted the new Apple TV is the future of TV.

It is no longer just a media player for users to stream movies, TV shows or watch YouTube videos. The new Apple TV has gaming elements as well.

While the set-top box's design remains largely unchanged (It is slightlt thicker), it now comes with a sleek remote control that doubles as a game controller.

The re-designed motion-sensitive remote comes with multi-axis sensors, a touchpad on the top and physical buttons below the touchpad.

The remote also comes with dual microphones and a dedicated button to access Apple's voice assistant, Siri. Users can ask Siri to help look for movies and TV shows or fast forward a show. It can even be used to query what a TV character had said during the show.

The Apple TV also comes with its own App Store and native software development kit for developers to create games and apps for the new TV operating system called tvOS.

The new Apple TV will begin shipping at the end of October in nearly 80 countries. It is priced at US$149 for the 32GB model and US$199 for the 64GB model. Local pricing and availability is not yet available.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.