Apple to unveil new set-top box by April, release it officially by Christmas

Apple is all set to refresh its Apple TV set-top box by the mid of the year and is now in talks with partners for online content. According to a report by Bloomberg, people related with the matter have disclosed that Apple will unveil the new Apple TV set-top box by April and release it officially just in time for Christmas holidays. The report further points out that the company is currently negotiating with Time Warner Cable (TWC) and several other partners for video content. The new device will reportedly get a faster processor than its predecessor. It is also expected to feature an upgraded interface for easier navigation, allowing users to switch between TV shows, movies and other content. It is set to mark the first deal for all such content with Time Warner Cable. Apple’s has reportedly been in talks with Time Warner Cable from the mid of last year but the delay between the talks and date of release is apparently due to the slow negotiations between Apple and its partners. The report also points out Apple ran into problems with Comcast Corp. (CMCSA) and DirecTV, the largest pay-TV distributors. It is now trying to convince both companies to use Apple IDs instead of the company credentials. Though the device is likely to release during the holiday season, it could possibly change as the company is still looking into new agreements with programming and distribution partners.