Apple, Google Compete in Crowded TV Market, Analyst Says

The market for streaming video devices priced at $99 and below is becoming increasingly crowded and competitive, with Apple, Amazon, Google and Roku competing for the top spot. Last year, Google shipped 8.7 million Chromecast sticks, beating out Apple TV’s 8.3 million units, analyst Paul Erickson of IHS Technology forecasts in a new report. Shipments of Chromecast sticks are expected to continue exceeding those of Apple TV by a close margin for the near future; though Apple TV has dropped to $69 neither its fundamental capabilities nor its iOS-centric market focus has changed, Erickson said. To beat Google, Erickson said, Apple needs to continue expanding overall capabilities and the selection of marquee content partners as well as release updated hardware.