For Apple TV users, Apple just released version 2.3 of its firmware with new features to allow streaming music via AirTunes to speakers connected to an Airport Express or the Apple TV, more support for 3rd party remote controls, support for Playlists with other media like Movies, TV Shows & Podcasts in iTunes that can be viewed in your Apple TV and lastly, volume control while playing Music. The update is only available via Apple TV’s built-in update service.

Although not earth shattering, the updates do give the impression that Steve Jobs’ hobby is still alive and that Apple is still working to improve the feature set of the Apple TV.

Reports are coming in about Apple is getting closer to provide more DRM-free music in iTunes Music Store. CNet reported that Apple is in further discussion with three other top recording companies about acquiring those songs for iTunes Plus.

With Amazon’s own DRM-free MP3 store providing much higher quality and yet affordable music without DRM, many have began to use iTunes as a tool to search for tunes but then turns to Amazon to purchase the tracks instead that are free from the DRM locks. With more such online stores providing such DRM-free purchases, Apple needs to work out these deals before they eat into the MP3 music pie.

Unfortunately at this moment, whichever deals are done, we Singaporeans will not enjoy any bit as long as the Music Store is not available here.

Share this if you liked it:

•