Update Now TV app for apple TV

[Anonymous User]

Will the Now TV app for Apple TV ever get an update?

The current version is complete rubbish and makes me regret ever getting a Now TV pass.

Unless there is an update my Now TV experience will be very short indeed.

[Anonymous User]

See I’m not prepared to compromise over my streaming device, or have multiple devices. I’ve always worked on the principle if they can’t make a suitable app I’ll take my money elsewhere.  Even DPlay is now on Apple TV, using the native interface I note, unlike Now TV’s beta app. 

What I’ve done for many years is occasional box set binges. There has been nothing that is that urgent I’d pay a monthly fee for a substandard app. 

This new app shows promise, despite their odd interface, but that is their brand at the expense of functionality and continuity. So a strange choice. 

Issue is currently core functionality doesn’t work in the beta app, leaving you no better off than the current public released app. 

Let’s hope the next beta build is soon and addresses some of the many issues. 

[ukbobboy]

@nst @MrZippy 

Hi nst

You replied to Mr Z the following, "I'd much prefer to see regular, smaller build updates every few weeks that just address one or two issues.....".

I'm sure you must realise that, nowadays, most companies, if at all, only keep one or two software programmers on staff for emergencies, but most of the time they're hired in to preform updates, upgrades and roll-outs. To justify the cost of hiring contract programmers, which is a substantial outlay, companies must have the work for these expensive temp staff members to do, hence the saving up of small problems.

In other words, it's all about economics.

UK Bob

PS.  The above is only one business model, a lot of companies have also outsourced their programming requirements and maintenance to other specialist companies in other countries.

[nst]

@ukbobboy 

Speaking as someone who worked in software development, programming, design, and testing for 25 years I appreciate this more than most.

for me stating a preference for how id like things done does not in fact indicate an expectation that it can be done or should be done by the NowTV development resources.... simply that id prefer that approach given the choice.

It seems that the approach is indeed that they will collate as many bugs as they can, and roll them into a single build release giving us less builds over the life of the beta trial, but with each build containing a significant number of changes.

This is speculation of course as we are still on beta 1 build 1.

Im deliberately not discussing specifics of what does or doesn't work or what should or shouldn't be included in the next build as thats just for the trialists and not for public discussion at the moment.

[Anonymous User]

How do I get my hands on the beta version?

Thanks in advance!

[nst]

@Anonymous User 

Build a TARDIS, hop back in time about 8 weeks, and sign up for the Beta trial 🙂

In seriousness... I think that ship has long since sailed - you needed to apply and be chosen to take part in the Beta, and then receive and invite and a code.  The beta is closely monitored and not a free-for-all.

You could email the trials team to ask if they have any unused spaces though.  Although its been ongoing for about 8 weeks we are still on beta 1 and so it doesnt seem to be progressing at much of a pace to be fair.

[Anonymous User]

I thought they would of at least released the second build by now.

[Anonymous User]

Does this beta that's been tested for ATV include Boost?

I've just purchased an ATV and this Now TV app is the only thing that's stopping me from keeping it because it's never been updated. I had no idea until I set it (ATV) up.

[nst]

@Anonymous User I would urge you to keep the AppleTV box.. its really the best out there.  Fastest, best interface, best user experience, and for Amazon, iPlayer, All4, My5, UKTV Play, Disney+ the integration with the Apple TV app is very good and unparalleled.

Yes, of course the current 4 year old crappy NowTV app is simply inexcusable and not for for purpose.

What we can say is there IS a replacement coming.  We cannot say when its going to be released or whether or not it will support Boost in its first public version because nobody knows.

Personally speaking I really hope it does, as if it doesnt I will have no choice but to keep using my NowTV box for HD content - as im not willing to watch it in non-boost quality as I pay for boost.

I WANT a 1-Box solution.  AppleTV is, and should be the best and only choice... lets just hope that boost is supported whenever the new app is released.

[Anonymous User]

@nstThanks for your reply.

I agree with everything you've said.

I trialed the Now TV app built-in to the TV but, like you, would like a one box solution.

I looked at the Shield, I wanted the Shield but, the lack of BT Sport and Now TV is a deal breaker.

I did initially have lip sync issues with multi-channel sound fields output by ATV but, have since resolved that.

I used the search function on the forum with regard ATV prior to asking about Now TV and it would appear the app has been in beta for a couple of years, is that really right?

I hope it's worth it, when it arrives.

[Anonymous User]

It’s been in beta at the end of last year that just ended with no U.K. release, noting it was released in Ireland. And this current beta that started a couple of months ago, in its current beta state it’s not ready for release.