Apple is set to launch a standalone Apple TV app on the Mac later this year, likely coinciding with the release of macOS 10.15. In addition to the Apple TV app, it appears that Apple will also introduce several other standalone applications, marking a significant shift in how media content is managed on macOS.
Breaking Down iTunes
The iconic iTunes application, which has long been the hub for music, movies, TV shows, and podcasts, will be split into multiple dedicated apps. This move is expected to streamline user experience by providing specialized apps for different types of media. The movies and TV shows will be housed in the Apple TV app. Additionally, there will be separate applications for Music and Podcasts, and Apple will also release an updated Books app.
This information comes from developer Steve Troughton-Smith, who shared insights on Twitter about Apple’s plans. According to Troughton-Smith, these new apps are likely to be based on UIKit, Apple’s framework for building user interfaces for iOS. This suggests that the new apps will have a design and functionality similar to their iOS counterparts, providing a more cohesive experience across Apple devices.
I am now fairly confident based on evidence I don’t wish to make public at this point that Apple is planning new (likely UIKit) Music, Podcasts, perhaps even Books, apps for macOS, to join the new TV app. I expect the four to be the next wave of Marzipan apps. Grain of salt, etc
— Steve Troughton-Smith (@stroughtonsmith) April 5, 2019
Implications for Users
The introduction of these standalone apps could have several implications for users. For one, it could make it easier to manage different types of media. Instead of navigating through a single, often cluttered iTunes interface, users will have dedicated apps tailored to specific media types. This could lead to a more intuitive and efficient user experience.
Moreover, the move aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of unifying the user experience across its ecosystem. By using UIKit, Apple ensures that the macOS versions of these apps will closely resemble their iOS counterparts. This consistency can make it easier for users to switch between devices without having to relearn how to use the apps.
Another potential benefit is performance. By breaking iTunes into smaller, more focused apps, Apple can optimize each one for better performance. This could result in faster load times and a more responsive interface, enhancing the overall user experience.
What to Expect at WWDC
Apple is expected to reveal more details about these new apps at this year’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) in June. WWDC is Apple’s annual event where developers from around the world gather to learn about the company’s latest software advancements. It is highly anticipated that Apple will showcase these new apps, providing developers with insights into how they can integrate their own applications with the new media ecosystem.
In addition to the new apps, Apple may also announce other updates and features for macOS 10.15. Given the company’s focus on enhancing user experience and performance, it will be interesting to see what other innovations Apple has in store.
The introduction of standalone apps for TV, Music, Podcasts, and Books marks a significant shift in how Apple manages media content on macOS. This move is expected to provide a more streamlined and efficient user experience, aligning with Apple’s broader strategy of unifying its ecosystem. As we await further details at WWDC, it is clear that these changes will have a lasting impact on how users interact with media on their Macs.
Source MacRumors
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
