Apple has just released the iOS 4.3 update for the second-generation AppleTV, which now allows the streaming of purchased TV shows, and Vimeo support. Further, a new iCloud-like “purchased” section allows you to re-watch TV shows you previously purchased through iTunes.
The ability to re-download previously purchased TV shows on the AppleTV makes the AppleTV the final device to finally start benefitting from Apple’s new iCloud features, even though iCloud does not officially launch until this fall. The new “purchased” section basically functions as a cloud-based digital locker for all your TV shows.
Furthermore, you can now purchase new TV episodes directly from your Apple TV, whereas previously the Apple TV was only able to rent television episodes. The update also brings support for YouTube Playlists, as well as Vimeo integration, allowing you to stream videos directly from the service on the Apple TV.
With the update, Apple TVs now report their firmware version as 4.3. You can download the updated firmware here. The full list of changes in the update are found below:
– Audio: Addresses an issue in which audio is not output when playing some video content.
– Video playback: Addresses an issue in which video is not displayed when playing some content.
– Audio output setting: Adds an audio output setting for switching to 16-bit audio for compatibility with some TVs and AV receivers.
– Live FF/RW improvements: Improves the performance of fast-forwarding and rewinding live events.
– Movie description: Addresses an issue in which the description information is not displayed for some movies.
– YouTube video order: Addresses an issue in which YouTube subscription videos were not ordered by date.