The Apple TV (or, more correctly, the ?tv) is a set-top box designed to play back media from an iTunes library. The original model shipped in March 2007.

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image from apple.com

Among its features (besides the normal stunning design from Apple) is its internal 40GB hard drive, 802.11n wifi networking, and the Front Row-ish interface with the dead simple Apple remote.

The ?tv does not have any recording capabilities, and lacks a tuner, so its function is limited to playback only. Basically, it’s a large, stationary video iPod that uses your television for its display and speakers. it can be synced over ethernet, either wired or wifi.

In addition to playback of synced content, computers running on the local network can stream media to the device.

Take Two

• At Macworld 2008, Apple introduced movie rentals from the iTunes store, including from the Apple TV, and a brand new interface for the unit. Dubbed the “Apple TV Take Two” by the media (Apple itself doesn’t distinguish between versions), the hardware is largely unchanged. A software update was pushed out for older units.

Resources, Hardware and Software version 1

• AnandTech unboxes and disassembles a unit. Also see part two.

• Rogue Amoeba blabs five secrets, including the revelation that it works with (at least some) standard definition TVs.

• The unofficial FAQ From O’Reilly

• MacWorld’s First Look includes some common questions and answers.

• The MacRumors review

• AppleTVHacks, a repository of warranty-voiding modifications you can make to your AppleTV

• The MacWorld Review

• The Ars Technica review. Top notch, as usual.

Resources, “Take Two”

• Macworld Magazine reviews the “Take Two”

• RoughlyDrafted’s review of the “Take Two.” Also see part 2 of the review.

• ArsTechnica takes a quick look the Take Two

• ArsTechnica’s longer review