When we say that the Apple TV isn't a TV in the normal sense of the word, because it doesn't feature free-to-air channels, or a digital video recorder to catch shows while you're away, it does offer what could be described as channels, and this content keeps on growing leaving us hopeful for a future where the Apple TV will include links to OnDemand services just like our iPhones and iPads do - think the iPlayer and 4OD apps and you're not to far away. 

Apple has made multiple updates to the Apple TV software over recent month, adding a number of new app-style TV channels, delivering new content to Apple TV users.

For some times Apple has offered UK Apple TV users access to Netflix, YouTube, Vimeo and Wall Street Journal Live alongside the iTunes content.                                Unfortunately despite the fact that apps exist for iPhone and iPad, you cannot stream from the 4OD app, or ITV Player, or any other UK channel's iOS apps, as they do not currently work with AirPlay.

Other 'channels' that are available on the Apple TV in the UK include: Qello, which lets worldwide users stream HD concerts and music documentaries on-demand; Crunchyroll, the leading global video service for Japanese Anime and Asian media; Vevo, more music video content; and some randoms, such as Korean TV.

In the US, the Apple TV includes Hulu Plus, HBO Go, Watch ABC, The Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior, PBS, A&E, History, Lifetime, WatchESPN and more.

New channels in the US added in July include CNBC – as long as you log in with a Comcast or Time Warner password - and Fox Now, which includes programmes such as New Girl. Fox also requires you to log on with your cable password.

Other recent additions in the US include ABC News, PBS Kids, AOL On, and Willow.

In other news, Popcorn Time, known as the Netflix for pirated movies, will soon work with the Apple TV. Although we don't expect it to be around for long.               

The Apple TV is a stylish little black box that won't look out of place tucked beneath even the smartest HD TV. It's like a Mac mini, really, measuring 23x98x98mm and weighing a calorie-free 27g.

It's shiny black and curvy around the sides, and on the top is a matte black finish given relief by a shiny black Apple symbol and the word TV.                                      

If you are going to buy an Apple TV you need to know your own telly is compatible. It probably is. If you have an HD TVs with HDMI connectivity you can use the Apple TV as long as it is capable of 1080p or 720p output at 60/50Hz. You are unlikely to have any HD TV that doesn't fit this criteria, but your old CRT or a small, cheap flatscreen won't have HDMI in.

You'll need a broadband connection to access iTunes and the other content stores.       

Apple TV's user interface is simple and intuitive, as you'd expect from Apple, and will be familiar to all iPad and iPhone users as it utilises the bright and bold iOS looks.

The main screen delivers big icons for Films, TV Programmes, Computers and Settings, plus a small range of third-party options, including Netflix. The whole experience is very easy to use and stylish to look at.

You navigate the setup menus and input Wi-Fi network and password via the included Apple TV remote or using your iPhone and the Remote app. 

Luckily, the Apple TV Software Update 5.2 introduced a handful of useful new features that included the ability to pair the AppleTV with Apple’s own Wireless Keyboard – making use of Bluetooth hardware that has previously lain dormant within the AppleTV’s glossy little black box (Apple says that other Bluetooth keyboards “may also be compatible” as long as they match the layout of a standard Mac keyboard).

This simplifies the task of entering network passwords or using the search function when browsing the iTunes Store or the YouTube app. It’s not exactly revolutionary, but it does suggest that Apple is still trying to refine the AppleTV’s interface and make it easier to use in your front room.