For Zwifters today marks another way to access the ‘train with a party hat on’ massive multiplayer software, with the announcement of Zwift for Apple TV.
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If you’ve got a fourth or fifth generation Apple TV, Zwift can now be added into the units app ecosystem — this move follows the launch of the stand-alone Zwift apps that allows users to play/train on smartphones and tablets.
Once downloaded from the App store on the new 4K HD capable Apple TV, the set-top box’s native Bluetooth is used to connect directly with a smart trainer, power meter or other sensors and you're instantly ready to ride.
With the Apple TV starting at £179 / $179 / AU$209 it’s a fair bit cheaper than a laptop, tablet or smartphone, and is one of the most economical ways to access the software. Plus, when you’ve finished your workout you can flip over to Netflix and watch the Big Lebowski.
However, this also comes just as Zwift announced it’s upping the subscription fee from $9.99 to $14.99 per month.
Zwift in HD
“We watch TV every day,” comments Eric Min, CEO of Zwift. “We see participation in Zwift as part of that daily integration, with users easily connecting their fitness devices and streaming the game on the big screen. The affordability and convenience of Apple TV makes our fitness app truly accessible to the masses and helps us realize our original vision for what Zwift can do for our users.”
For older Apple TV owners, unfortunately, it won't work with pre-fourth generation boxes as the app is built largely around the remote with the built-in trackpad which is needed to navigate the game interface.
A Zwift monthly subscription will now cost $14.99 / £12.99 per month, and a seven-day free unlimited trial is automatically offered when you sign up.
Zwift is currently available on the App Store along with Zwift’s companion app, the “Zwift Mobile Link,” which can be used in tandem with Zwift as a game controller, data display, event feed, and social integration tool.