Tech Stuff 4 You

Did you go get an Apple TV as soon as it was released? Pre-ordered maybe? Are you the kind that can’t let things be and like to ‘improve’ your electronics by applying ‘hacks’ to them? Gizmodo has the top 5 hacks for your Apple TV hacking pleasure.

1. Boot Apple TV from an External USB Drive

2. Get Apple TV to Run XviD files

3. Bump up Apple TV’s Hard Drive

4. Make Front Row look like Apple TV

5. Get Apple TV to Work on Your Old Boob Tube

Read more at Gizmodo's Top 5 Apple TV Hacks

IPTV may be a ways off for the Xbox 360, but that doesn't mean you can't have a little internet TV fun right now. Introducing Orb, a media streaming solution for the Xbox 360, Wii, and PS3. Orb allows users to stream video, photos, and music to selected devices, including our beloved Xbox 360. Of course, the Xbox handles streaming all by its lonesome, but Orb adds the option of streaming content from internet sources as well. While we've seen similar functionality in programs like TVersity, we've actually managed to get Orb up and running with minimal hassle. So far we've watched a little BBC and a Japanese rock concert with little trouble (over a wireless connection no less). The program takes some time to buffer (over a minute in our case) but the ease of use is appreciated. To give it a shot yourself, head over to Orb.com, read the Xbox 360 guide, download the software, and get cracking.

Keep in mind you will have to create an Orb account, but it's free (for now at least). Also, we have no knowledge of how reliable Orb is, so use it at your own risk. Give it a whirl and tell us what you think.

Via Xbox360fanboy Via Teamxbox

Engadget has the first nice collection of pics I have seen of the Apple TV being un-boxed. Did you get one? What do you think of it?

Apple TV un-boxing.