This week has been very interesting for Apple users. iOS was updated on Tuesday to version 6.1, an incremental update but necessary to keep the platform moving forward. Apple TV was updated to version 5.2, which gave more compelling features to the set-top box. Most notably were the ability to use a Bluetooth keyboard to navigate the screen. In addition, all your purchased music is available on iCloud, as opposed to only those subscribed to iTunes Match. Apple's iTunes Match still exists for $25 a year.
It was a very odd night, this past Monday, at my house. I had been streaming Netflix shows on and off all day. Then suddenly Monday evening I was unsuccessful due to odd errors--on my Apple TV and my Sony Smart TV. After troubleshooting using the Netflix, Sony, and Apple sites I gave up. Not one to give up easily, I discovered later that I could successfully stream Netflix using my iPad with the Airplay Mirroring on to my Apple TV in another room. When Tuesday's steady trickle of Apple updates hit I attributed my issues the night before to a major Netflix and Apple TV update. Indeed, my Sony Smart TV worked great and has all week. Strange!
Late Tuesday, early Wednesday, Apple let us know of a 128GB version of its largest iPad with Retina display. That move suggests the possibility of some major apps jumping into the iPad fray, and existing developers expanding the amount of abilities their apps have. I know it would give me the freedom to go even deeper when editing movies or recording and editing audio. Maybe they will shoot out versions of Aperture, Final Cut Express, or Logic Express for iPad.
In the mean time they have us wondering about an update to existing hardware. Most likely a Retina Display for iPad Mini will appear, some say soon. Apple most likely will attach an "S" to the iPhone 5 sometime this year. The ever popular large iPad might get a speed boost, although hopefully only once this year. Whatever Apple decides to do with their eco-system, one can be sure they will be smart and successful.
Comments