Probability of HD video content in the iTS

[Diatribe]

I know a lot of people are waiting for HD video content, me included. But if you have a look at how big the files for the 720p trailers are at the moment you get a data rate of about 48.5 MB/Min. Taking this number a 90 minute movie would take about 4.4GB and a 120 minute movie about 5.8GB.
Those trailers are already 5.1 multi-channel so the size would not get any bigger. But at this size of a movie bandwidth would have to increase by a lot before Apple offers even 720p at the iTS, not even talking about 1080p which some people are demanding.
I am sorry to conclude that, although I'd love it, 720p just isn't happening in the near future.

 

[phanboyjohn]

I totally agree that HD files sizes are through the roof--I do have to say, though, that if Apple is serious about it's commitment to the Apple TV, it has to bring HD content to the ITS sooner rather than later. It may decimate our tiny hard drives (my MacBook hard drive is already at nigh-full), but seeing SD or 480p (I think ITS store is slightly over 480p now) stuff on your super uber plasma is not a great selling point for the Apple TV.

Basically, the Apple TV is in this awkward position between power users (who already employ something better than an Apple TV, like a full on media center setup) and regular consumers (who might not even have an HDTV yet, and thus cannot even use an Apple TV). To make the Apple TV a device worth buying will require going to 720p, IMHO.

 

[MacsRgr8]

Those trailers are already 5.1 multi-channel so the size would not get any bigger.

This is true, but WTH can't QuickTime play these movies through optical audio with Dolby 5.1 support?
DVD player can play Dolby 5.1, so can VLC on the same setup.

 

[Diatribe]

This is true, but WTH can't QuickTime play these movies through optical audio with Dolby 5.1 support?
DVD player can play Dolby 5.1, so can VLC on the same setup.

Good question. Apple really has to think of something. Discreet surround sound and HD is a must. Unfortunately bandwidths aren't there yet.