New Apple TV set-top box with game store on the way?

Apple is preparing to release an updated version of its TV set-top box that could have major implications for living room gaming, new reports have suggested. 9to5Mac reports that the new version of Apple TV is already well into testing and could launch in the first half of 2014. It's not the long-rumored Apple TV set, however, the site reports.

The site previously heard from sources that Apple is tinkering with new input methods like motion-controls for the new set-top box, but it's not clear if any kind of Kinect-like interface is going to make the final cut. Apple purchased original Kinect creator PrimeSense last year for a reported $360 million.

The new Apple TV set-top box is said to include a "revamped operating system" based on some form of iOS. Separately, iLounge reports that Apple TV is finally getting "proper game support" through Bluetooth controller options and the ability to download games directly to the device.

It's possible, then, that Apple could create a dedicated "Game Store" for the new version of Apple TV, 9to5Mac points out. So far, nothing is confirmed, and Apple has declined to comment.