Matt Johnston
An older Apple TV model.
A new report from the usually accurate Mark Gurman of 9to5Mac says the new Apple TV will focus on two major areas: gaming and Siri incorporation.
With its new Apple TV, the company will "actively compete" with gaming consoles from the likes of Microsoft and Sony, the report says.
Updated hardware, software, and supported peripherals are expected to make the Apple TV more appealing to gamers. For example, you'll be able to use console-style controllers that have been previously released for iPhones and iPads with the Apple TV.
That combined with the idea that you'll be able to download games directly on the set-top box through the new App Store that's rumored to come with the next Apple TV could make it an interesting gaming device for casual players.
Amazon made a similar move when it launched the Fire TV back in April 2014, which is compatible with an Amazon-made gaming controller and can run certain mobile games.
This is just one of several rumors we've heard about Apple's new TV so far. Previous reports have indicated that Siri will be one of the marquee features to debut on the new streaming box. Gurman reports that a "near-universal" Siri control could be coming, which sounds as if you'll be able to execute most commands without even using the Apple TV's remote control.
That being said, Apple is also believed to be working on a revamped Bluetooth remote control for its next-generation TV box. It's said to include both tactile physical buttons and a touch pad. These physical buttons could include a home button and a button for activating Siri.
Other changes reportedly include a faster processor and a thicker design, as Gurman as reported in the past.
The next Apple TV is also expected to be more expensive at $200 when it reportedly launches in October, according to Gurman. For context, the current Apple TV was priced at $99 when it initially launched and now only costs $69.