The Next Generation Apple TV

The next-generation Apple TV, the one we first revealed as Apple TV 3,1 with the J33 codename, will include Bluetooth 4.0 technology. Before even getting into the advantages of Bluetooth 4.0, it is worth noting that our code-based finding in iOS 5.1 beta 1 of a next-generation Apple TV with Bluetooth 4.0 is further evidence that an Apple TV refresh will soon be upon us.

The advantages of Bluetooth 4.0

Bluetooth 4.0 (the chip in the next AppleTV is called BCM4330 by Broadcom) “provides the highest level of integration for a mobile and handheld wireless system” according to it’s manufacture, Broadcom. The chip packs in integrated IEEE 802.11 a/b/g and single-stream 802.11 n (MAC/baseband/radio), Bluetooth 4.0+HS, and FM radio receiver and transmitter. The chip is also consumes very little power and is able to do so with its “advanced design techniques.”  The Bluetooth 4.0 protocol guarantees peripherals can be ultra-low power as well.