Connections: HDMI, micro USB, ethernet, WiFi
I am connected to wifi at home and the Apple TV interface is fast and smooth, no lag despite being connected to only a 720p TV.
Two Apple decals are included
Setup took 2 minutes and was crazy easy. Typical Apple device - sign in using an Apple ID and everything was ready to go. I'm the type of person that heads into the settings app first-thing, so that's what I did.. luckily there is a Settings icon in the first row of icons. The included remote control is made of the same brushed aluminum as the Macbooks and is easy to use.
After setting Apple TV up,, the icons are listed on the screen. There are 19 apps, including YouTube, Netflix, Hulu Plus and Vimeo. My small HDMI TV is only 720p but it doesn't lag and the Apple TV user interface is beautiful.
AirPlay mirroring was easy to set up - double-tap the home button on the iPhone, iPod or iPad, swipe twice to the right and an AirPlay icon appears to the right of the volume scroller. I pressed the AirPlay icon on the iPhone and the iPhone's screen immediately appeared on my TV. I wanted an iPad mini so I could browse the web on a larger screen but I don't need it now, Apple TV took care of it. Score!
Everything that you do on the iPhone can be done on Apple TV, of course since it's mirroring the iPhone screen. Browsing the web is fast and smooth.
There is an app in the App Store called Remote that can be used on the iPhone to control the Apple TV - very nice touch. The Remote app requires some type of ID/password that needs to be set up from iTunes (home sharing), but it really isn't needed since a physical remote control is included with the Apple TV.
I don't have a PC so I don't have the full iTunes app on a desktop computer but it seems it isn't needed.
An instruction manual is included but I haven't had to open it yet.
While I was in Best Buy I met an Apple employee (genius?), he was there showing off the iPad mini. He said I could buy an Apple bluetooth keyboard for my iPhone 4S and the whole setup would be close to having a desktop Mac (iPhone, Apple TV, television, bt keyboard, network connection). However, I found out, the Magic Mouse doesnt work with the iPhone 4S.
Despite my being an impatient and picky old man, and knowing nothing about the Apple TV, I am thoroughly impressed. This device is indicative of the beauty and ease of use that I have come to know and love from Apple. This device is definitely a keeper
EDIT: Oh, almost forgot, the Apple TV has a screen saver. Several from which to choose or you can use your photo stream pics
