Reports claim that the new Apple TV does not support Remote app from iOS and watchOS. (Photo : REUTERS/Robert Galbraith)
Several reports claim that the recently released fourth-generation Apple TV does not support Apple's own Remote app for watchOS and iOS.
Apple has even acknowledged the issue that its newest Apple TV will not work with the Remote app released of iPhones and Apple Watches. The company said that the remote app only supports third-generation Apple TV or earlier models.
A cautionary message is now posted on Apple's Remote app support webpage and it reads, "The Remote app isn't compatible with Apple TV (4th generation)."
Many tech analysts believe that this is not a glitch or a compatibility issue. Many believe that Apple deliberately leave Remote app compatibility for the new Apple TV in order to promote the new Siri-powered remote control interface. However, Apple's decision to go this road has already caused serious problems especially to users who are not keen into using onscreen keyboards.
Recent reviews of the fourth generation Apple TV cited that the interface is far more difficult to use compared to previous iterations, partly because of some weird character layout.
For long time users of the Apple TV, the Remote app is an effective way to browse through features by simply using their iPhone or iPad. Other users also prefer to use Bluetooth keyboards, an option which is also unavailable on some Apple TV models.
Apple has yet to comment whether it is planning to support the Remote app on its new Apple TV. Many tech analysts believe that bringing back the iOS and watchOS support of the Remote app can be fixed by an update. If this is the case, Apple might need to update its tvOS as well, according to Apple Insider.
