While Google TV is trying to convince users that they need to make some changes to their viewing habits, Apple is not about the let Google have all the fun. According to a Mashable report, Apple has announced that it expects sales of its redesigned Apple TV to top one million later this week.
Apple TV was first introduced in September. This latest version of Apple TV is designed to support Netflix, YouTube, Flickr and MobileMe. Apple TV will also offer content streaming and affordable rental pricing for TV shows, all for a price of $99.99.
Not surprisingly, it seems Apple’s new strategy worked as the company has sold one million units in three and a half months. The company also claims that iTunes users are now renting and purchasing more than 400,000 TV episodes and more than 150,000 movies per day – suggesting a huge market opportunity.
This success is definitely a slap in the face for Google as its Google TV was once perceived as a chief rival to Apple TV, yet is not doing nearly as well. And, as broadcast networks continue to ban Google TV from accessing their content, and a number of manufacturers have decided not to display their Google TV devices at CES, Apple TV continues to drive adoption.
In other successful Apple news, TechZone360 reported that Apple was recently awarded a patent on a new auto-stereoscopic 3D projection system that will allow multiple viewers to watch 3D content without glasses. The patent actually describes a rather complicated setup that involves a motion-tracking system that can monitor the eyes of multiple viewers.
TechZone360 also announced that Apple stores are being seen as easy smash and grab targets for thieves. The latest burglary occurred on early Tuesday morning at the Greenwich Avenue Apple Store in Fairfield County, Conn., where five thieves made off with tens of thousands of dollars worth of high-end electronics. It may be time to ramp up security at Apple’s stores.
Not to be outdone in the headlines, Google is touting a number of green initiatives. The company stated that it is fully committed to a future that includes clean energy. Google has had a busy year with its clean energy initiatives and has also redesigned its green website. The blog post included a look back at 2010 and the green accomplishments the company has made.
Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TechZone360 and has also written for eastbiz.com. To read more of Susan’s articles, please visit her columnist page.Edited by
Tammy Wolf