14 DAY TRIAL // Code strings discovered in the latest iOS SDK seem to indicate that Apple is planning to turn on Bluetooth support in the Apple TV with the release of iOS 5, allowing users to pair the set-top-box with wireless devices like keyboards, as well as with the company’s entire range of iOS devices.
Originally discovered by 9to5mac, Apple has included bluetooth support in their second-generation Apple TV.
For now, it’s hidden. Bluetooth support is not present within the actual Apple TV operating system (also a variant of the iOS).
However, Apple’s next iOS release (scheduled for fall 2011) will turn the wireless function on, according to a batch of code strings found in the iOS software development kid (SDK).
A screenshot of the Bluetooth references in question is available to the left.
Apple is believed to be targeting this bluetooth support for keyboards at first.
However, the ability would also let users connect the Apple TV to iPads, iPhones, and iPod touches, turning these into more complex (more maneuverable) controllers for $99 the set-top-box.
Add the A5-chip and iOS 5 into the mix, and Apple’s next revision to the Apple TV may just mark the company’s first real foray into the big-screen gaming industry (if we count out the Pippin).
By exploring the code, 9to5 was able to determine that users will be able to activate the built-in bluetooth support via the standard settings menu.
A standard pairing menu will allow users to connect with a provided passcode.
The blog itself speculates that bluetooth accessory and keyboard support is perhaps a sign of apps coming to the big-screen TV. All Apple would need to do is create an adjacent Apple TV section on the iOS App Store, much like it did when the iPad was introduced.
And now we turn the speculation over to you.
How do you see the Apple TV work as a casual computer that’s constantly connected to your HDTV?
How about having it as a gaming system? What games would you see controllable with the iPhone or iPad?
