The Apple TV remote may be getting a redesign in the near future to include a trackpad type input method rather than the three buttons that it currently uses.
Apple has long suggested that traditional TV remotes are too complex, touting its simplistic design, however, many suggest that Apple's remote is a little too simplistic.
Apple is set to unveil an updated version of the Apple TV at WWDC in June, an update that is a few years overdue. It is likely that Apple will give the device better specifications along with the slight redesign. Some suggest that the company might even unveil its own TV streaming service, but this is largely speculation so far.
The trackpad on the Apple TV remote would be similar to that found on Apple's MacBook computers and would likely add to the thickness and weight of the remote as well. Apple has been developing its trackpad technology over the past few years, adding "force touch" functionality, which was developed using technology found in the Apple Watch.
Some suggest, however, that a trackpad might not be the best input choice for Apple. Google has taken to using voice control in its remote for Android TV, a feature that has been largely well-received. Not only that, but Google also offers users of Android TV a gamepad for gaming with Android games. Apple users would not really be able to game very easily with a trackpad.
Of course, some rumors suggest that Apple will be including Siri support, meaning that it may include voice control support as well. This would likely be a very welcome addition to users of Apple TV.
The addition of a trackpad would also bring Apple TV in line with every other major Apple product currently available, with touch control being a theme in computers, phones, tablets and watches.
Now, of course, there is something to be said for the fact that Apple isn't really going after the gaming market in the same way that Google is. However, it does point to the fact that simply adding a trackpad won't necessarily make for a much better user experience.
Of course, the redesigned remote might make more sense in the context of a new Apple TV, complete with new features and a new interface. Many suggest that the update will be one of the biggest to the Apple TV since its release in 2007.
