The developers behind the Apple TV MobileX project have released a new video of their work this week, which shows iOS applications running in full 720p via a modified Apple TV.
In the video after the break, you can see Apple TV MobileX being used to run applications such as Facebook, Maps, Safari, and YouTube. However, most of the applications available in the Apple iTunes App Store should also run without a problem, say the MobileX project development team. The video below is not using AirPlay but running the iOS applications directly from the Apple TV, scaling them to 720p.
Technical Details and Development
The MobileX team explains:
“More MobileX goodness! Much of today was spent making apps run as the full-screen iPad versions. I started writing a new launcher from scratch for the TV form factor; as of right now it’s not using IR remote input – we’re controlling most things from VNC or over SSH.”
This statement highlights the technical challenges and innovations involved in the project. By adapting iOS applications to run on a larger screen with a different input method, the developers are pushing the boundaries of what the Apple TV hardware can do. The use of VNC (Virtual Network Computing) and SSH (Secure Shell) for control indicates a high level of technical proficiency and a deep understanding of both software and hardware integration.
Potential and Future Developments
The implications of this project are significant. If the MobileX team can successfully run a wide range of iOS applications on Apple TV, it could transform the device from a simple streaming box into a versatile computing platform. Imagine using productivity apps like Microsoft Office or creative tools like Adobe Photoshop directly on your TV. This could make the Apple TV a central hub for both entertainment and productivity in the home.
Moreover, the ability to run iOS apps on a larger screen could open up new possibilities for app developers. They could create or adapt applications specifically designed for the TV experience, offering new ways to interact with content. For example, educational apps could provide a more immersive learning experience, while gaming apps could take advantage of the larger screen and potentially more powerful hardware.
More news on the Apple TV MobileX project can be found over @stroughtonsmith and @TheMudkip, who have been busy developing the new Apple TV hack.
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The Apple TV MobileX project represents a fascinating glimpse into the future of home entertainment and computing. By enabling iOS applications to run on Apple TV, the developers are not only expanding the functionality of the device but also challenging the traditional boundaries between different types of consumer electronics. As the project continues to develop, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and what new possibilities it unlocks for users and developers alike.
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