It was on September 3, days before the big Apple event, that Apple created a new Twitter account. Game profiles, tips, tricks, challenges, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes information regarding popular and less-known games will be posted in the account to be known as @AppStoreGames. App editors will manage the Twitter account where they could interact with game developers.
According to Apple Insider, the new Twitter feed for games is rumored to advertise the upcoming Apple TV's gaming capability. Previously, the Apple TV only functioned as a video and music streamer. According to The New York Times, Apple added gaming function to the device and will use it as the key promotional feature.
For this reason, Apple revamped the Apple TV's processor to A8 for better graphics and faster performance suited for gaming purposes. The new set-top box will come with a built-in App Store where users can purchase and download games. It will also enable content providers to develop their own apps. The new remote control features motion sensors that allow it to act as a game controller.
Apple TV targets casual gamers who find pleasure in simple and easy games. The giant tech company made an unexpected entrance in the gaming industry back when the iPhone was released with its mobile games. It was surprising in the sense that Apple has mostly focused on products dealing with music, photos, and videos rather than games. Nowadays, iPhone and iPad games are growing popular like Clash of Clans.
Jan Dawson of Jackdaw Research firm said, "What the Apple TV has the potential to do is to bring casual gaming to the living room and make it a much more social activity." However, James Gwertzman of Playfab speculated that game console developers won't likely switch over to Apple TV since it lacks the power to play their games. He further describes playing Apple and Android games as a 'play a game on the bus' experience, while playing traditional consoles provide living room experiences.
Though it is unlikely to win over hardcore gamers, the Apple TV could still attract a large population of casual gamers according to Reuters. Trip Hawkins of Electronic Arts and 3DO claims that the living room is still an unconquered battle field for tech companies. He further finds Apple a worthy candidate of winning the tech battle, considering its past innovations.
The release date of the new Apple TV and iPhones is this coming Wednesday, September 9. Aside from the gaming support, users can expect more added features to the Apple TV such as universal search feature for web-based streaming and a Siri voice command support.
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