New Apple TV to Cost $149 and Finally Get Universal Search!

The new Apple TV will be priced starting at $149 and will finally get Universal Search, reports John Paczkowski for BuzzFeed.

Paczkowski notes that as previously reported, the Apple TV is set to receive a faster processor, a more powerful remote with touchpad input and motion sensors, and Siri integration for voice control. However, another big new feature will be Universal Search which lets you search and receive results from various sources.

Sources familiar with Apple’s plans say that a cornerstone of the the company’s new set-top box is a universal search feature that will enable searches across multiple streaming video services as well as Apple’s iTunes Store. Instead of searching the catalogs of multiple video services one-at-a-time for a particular movie, you’ll now be able to search all — or most of them — at once and then choose the service on which you’d like to watch it. You’ll also be able to search for actors and directors, and run other more targeted searches as well — all with Siri. While Apple’s intelligent personal assistant is core to this feature, sources say there’s another engine driving it as well — Matcha, the video discovery start-up Apple acquired back in 2013.


Universal Search could have a dramatic effect on the Apple TV experience. Currently, it's much easier to browse by category and then scroll alphabetically when looking for content. Having a simple friendly search function will make locating media much easier, especially if it works with Siri.

Paczkowski also states that the Apple TV will start at $149. The lower price point being selected to increase market penetration ahead of the company's upcoming web TV service.

Apple is expected to unveil the new Apple TV on September 9th. Please follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, or RSS for updates.

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