If you’ve invested in the new Apple TV, have exhausted all the Siri voice control options, and are looking for a new way to interact with your television, here are some of the most recommended apps across the most popular categories. 

The new Apple TV. Photo: Apple TV press kit

When the most recent Apple TV launched in late 2015, CEO Tim Cook said that the future of television is apps.

Instead of just watching television, we’ll be playing games, shopping, learning new skills and even becoming healthier with the help of this device.

If you’ve invested in the new Apple TV, have exhausted all the Siri voice control options, and are looking for a new way to interact with your television, here are some of the most recommended apps across the most popular categories. 

Streaming Shows: Netflix

Netflix’s on-demand TV and movie service finally reached Australian shores at the end of last year and is now available as an Apple TV app.

Reviewers like it because it syncs well with remote and voice control, letting you rewind, pause and fast-forward with ease.

Access Netflix via your Apple TV, bring out the popcorn and get binge watching!

Cost: Free with your Netflix subscription

Exercise: Zova

Like the Nintendo Wii, Apple TV gives you the opportunity to get fit without having to rely on the same old DVD collection or pay for a pricey gym membership.

Download Zova to access hundreds of workouts, from beginner lessons and yoga to high intensity sweat sessions and hardcore pilates. You can do a three-minute quick workout or keep going for half an hour.

Zova lets you sync to your own playlist and set your fitness goals. The videos are good quality so you will have no trouble following along.

Cost: This app comes with a monthly subscription fee of around $14 AUD.

Arcade Game: Geometry Wars 3

Geometry Wars 2. Photo courtesy: iTunes

This app makes the top 10 in almost all 'best game' lists for Apple TV. You may already have it on your smartphone or tablet - it’s a simple but addictive premise where you shoot at the bad guys while staying out of their way by moving around a 3D board.

The reason Geometry Wars 3 gets the thumbs up for Apple TV is that it’s very easy to use with the remote control and it has great visual and sound effects.

Cost: Approx $14 AUD

Cooking: Yummly

Photo courtesy: Yummly press kit

You might be familiar with this website as one of the best for finding recipes. It has thousands, curated from all over the world, and you can filter your search by adding or excluding ingredients.

Using Yummly on your TV means no more squinting at a tiny iPhone screen while you’re trying a new recipe.

If your place is open plan, you’ll be able to bring your favourite recipes up on a nice big television screen and follow the instructions with ease. 

Cost: Free

Displaying Photos: Storehouse

Photo courtesy: Storehouse

Originally launched as an iOS app, Storehouse lets you showcase photos and videos on your TV. Instead of just displaying all those random shots you have on your phone, the app helps you to tell a story. You can create albums and display your favourite images when you have guests drop by.

Cost: Free

Laughing: Funny or Die

Who doesn’t like a good belly laugh? Funny or Die, originally a website founded by comedian Will Ferrell, Chris Henchy and Adam McKay, gets loads of mentions around the web of being a worthy addition to your Apple TV app collection.

The website and the app are jam packed with hilarious clips from some of the world’s best known comedians.

Cost: Free

Watching Music Videos: Vevo

Top of the pops meets Apple TV - Vevo is a free app that lets you watch music videos from your favourite top 40 music artists.

You can watch on-demand or have the system suggest clips based on your viewing preferences. It’s a great one to have on during an energetic house cleaning session or at a gathering with friends.

Cost: Free

Booking a Holiday: AirBnb

Photo courtesy: AirBnb

It makes sense that this app is gaining traction on the Apple TV platform - when searching for holiday accommodation you want to see images in as much detail as possible.

Using your big screen means you can choose a place as a couple or family without having to squeeze around a computer.

Cost: Free

Apps on TV are very much a ‘watch this space’ concept at the moment, so expect lots of exciting, interactive new options over the coming months. 

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