Apple TV Update Brings Revamped Design, Beats Music, and More

Apple on Wednesday has silently rolled out an update (version 7.0) to its Apple TV set-top box, alongside the much-awaited iOS 8 update roll out. The update, which is limited to third-generation Apple TV set-top boxes brings a refreshed UI design, the Beats Music streaming channel, Family Sharing and iCloud Photo Library.

Previously, the update was first spotted in beta in August.

According to 9to5mac, the latest software version 7.0 for the third-generation Apple TV has brought a similar look and feel as iOS 8, with thinner text and flatter icons. Apple has also included Beats Music streaming channel in the updated software, and lets users sign up for a 14-day free trial period as well. Notably, Apple had recently acquired Beats for about $3 billion.

With the updated Apple TV, users also get extended support for Apple's new feature called Family Sharing. The feature allows users to connect multiple Apple ID accounts to a single group with one credit card for sharing purchases. The purchase support has also been extended to music, movies, and TV shows. Apple TV users also get the support for iCloud Photo Library. Users will now be able to sign in into iCloud using Apple TV.

(Also see: Apple Slashes iMac, Mac Mini, Apple TV Prices in India)

The Cupertino company is also reportedly working on the next-generation of Apple TV, which it will not release until at least 2015.

The reason behind the delayed launch was reported to be the uncertainty Apple is facing due to ongoing discussions of deals with cable companies, as well as the pending Comcast-Time Warner Cable merger . Apple is also rumoured to introduce Siri on the overhauled Apple TV,

(Also see: Apple developing a set-top box, in talks with Comcast for streaming service: Report)