The streaming TV set-top box space keeps getting more crowded.
There's Roku, Google's Chromecast, and several other smaller players.
But the Apple TV is still the most popular gadget in the emerging category. And it does a lot more than just stream Netflix. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your Apple TV.
Ditch the Apple TV remote and use your iPhone instead
The remote that comes with your Apple TV is beautiful, but a bit too minimal to always do everything you want.
It's best to download the Remote app and control your Apple TV with your iPhone or iPad instead. The app is especially useful when you're searching for stuff on your Apple TV. For example, instead of navigating the keyboard on your TV with the arrow keys on your remote, you can just type away on your iPhone or iPad.
Play iPhone games on your TV.
Thanks to AirPlay, which lets you beam content from your iPhone or iPad to the Apple TV, you can play some iPhone games on the big screen.
Newer iPhones and iPads support something called AirPlay mirroring, which displays whatever is on your device's screen on the Apple TV. It even works with games.
To switch on AirPlay mirroring, make sure your device is connected to the same WiFi network as your Apple TV. Next, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access the control panel. Finally, tape the "AirPlay" button and select the option to mirror everything to your Apple TV.
Now launch a game. It should appear on your TV.
Never plug your computer into the TV again.
AirPlay Mirroring allows you to take whatever you see on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and beam it wirelessly over to your big screen TV. It's perfect for presentations or demos on your computer or mobile device.
Unfortunately, not all Apple devices work with AirPlay mirroring. You'll need a newer MacBook, iPhone, or iPad that was made within the last two years or so.
It's worth noting that not all apps are AirPlay compatible, as it is up to the app developers to incorporate AirPlay functionality. But it can be used to play games, show keynote presentations, or perform product demos on a regular TV.
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