Why no web browser on Apple TV?

I have just installed Apple TV, which replaced an old Elgato EyeHome. One of the nice features of this device was that it in addition to all the streaming features it allowed web browsing (though via a very poor browser!). I was wondering why Apple have not included a web browser in Apple TV, especially since an iPhone can now be used as a keyboard?

One other feature of the EyeHome was that it allowed many different formats to be viewed on your TV, not just iTunes compatible formats....

Tony

PB G4 12" and G5 DP 2.5GHz, Mac OS X (10.4.11)

Posted on Jul 24, 2008 3:22 AM

22 replies

Jul 24, 2008 4:59 AM in response to Antony-D-Emanuele

TV screens are not well suited to work as computer monitors, the resolution and refresh rate are generally too low amongst other things.  generally avoid features that are lacklustre.

Jul 24, 2008 5:04 AM in response to Winston Churchill

I would still like the option to access the web e.g. to access iPlayer from the BBC. I suspect that Apple are making the device a less attractive option by not having a web browser?

Tony

Jul 24, 2008 11:53 AM in response to Sr. Vergas

To be sure, pretty much any computer monitor from recent times should be able to do 60Hz.

Also, some of the newer TVs are 120Hz (30 * 4 = 120, 24 * 5 = 120).

Maggot

Level 2

251 points

Jul 24, 2008 1:47 PM in response to Solid

I would LOVE a Safari browser on the ATV.

user1724

Level 3

535 points

Jul 24, 2008 5:04 PM in response to Maggot

What Apple needs is an app store for the TV. Then you would get a browser and a bunch of other cool stuff I am sure.

Jul 25, 2008 11:05 AM in response to Winston Churchill

I guess that if a TV can show the Apple TV menu on it's screen clearly then the contents of a web page should look reasonable?

Tony

Alley_Cat

Level 7

20,560 points

Jul 26, 2008 1:04 AM in response to user1724

user1724 wrote:
Now if you buy a cheap TV without the proper circuitry, then you get what you pay for.

I see.

AC

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Why no web browser on Apple TV?