14 DAY TRIAL // Apple introduced the Apple TV as a relatively static box that would stream content bought from iTunes directly to your TV. While the device was certainly capable of more, it required jumping through several hoops and often using third party applications. Now, it looks like Apple is coming to terms with the fact that there is a lot more content out there than just what the iTunes Store is offering and people will want to enjoy it.
Following the introduction of the 'Export to Apple TV' option in QuickTime, Apple is taking things one step further and has introduced the same option directly in iTunes. In doing so, not only does the user have an easier time since everything can be done from within one single application, but Apple is also cutting down on the need to use third party applications.
Like the 'Convert Selection for iPod' feature, 'Convert Selection for Apple TV' offers a one-click solution for converting video files to a resolution and video format that is compatible with the Apple TV. The conversion process will yield high-resolution files, with a maximum of 1280x720 (720P), which look very good on HDTVs. These files will not play on iPods, but, they can be re-converted into an iPod compatible version at a later date. Like all video conversions, the process can take some time, especially with longer videos.
While Apple is definitely making things easier by offering these options, enjoying video content over multiple devices is still far from being the most simple of processes. You do not only have to go through the conversion process, but then you have to juggle three versions of the same file, each for different devices. This is a far cry from the way things happen with music. As technology progresses and the capabilities of the portable devices keep getting better, the need for conversions and separate version of the files will pass, but until then, video is more of a bother than audio.