Apple reveals why a new software update was needed for the set-top-box

Feb 12, 2010 13:01 GMT  ·  By

Earlier this week, Apple issued Apple TV Software Update 3.0.2. Without any documentation to refer to, members of the media speculated the update had something to do with other recent ones from Apple, such as the major release of Aperture 3. As it turns out, the Mac maker issued Apple TV Software Update 3.0.2 for entirely different reasons, according to a Support document detailing its contents.

Besides adding connectivity, performance, and media-related fixes, Apple TV 3.0.2 includes “fixes for Genius playlists, MobileMe gallery photos, iTunes U content, Internet Radio, and other media-related features,” Apple notes. “The update also includes performance and connectivity fixes for Apple TV,” the summary ends.

Reported by several Apple TV users who’ve gotten around to updating their set-top-boxes is that problems related to switching its HDMI output cable have disappeared, since applying the update. Minor tweaks in the user interface also seemed to have been included, in what looked like an attempt to enhance the readability of the text, AppleInsider informed, following the release.

Whether or not there’s more to this update than meets the eye, Apple claims it is always a good idea to make sure you have the latest software update for your Apple TV. The appropriate steps for updating your Apple TV software, according to Apple, are:

- Select Settings > General using your Apple Remote. - Select Update Software. - At this time your Apple TV checks to see if an update is available and a Download Now message should appear. - Select Download Now to start the download process. - When the update has finished downloading, an Update Now message should appear. - To start the update process, select Update Now. During the update process, your Apple TV will conduct a restart, which is followed by the Apple logo and a status bar. - Note: On some TVs, the screen may display black for up to 15 minutes and the Apple TV may flash an amber light; this is expected behavior. Do not unplug your Apple TV during the update process. - After the final restart, your Apple TV plays the opening video and returns to the main menu.