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Codenamed iTV - a name that CEO Steve Jobs admitted needs changing - the device, looking like a Mac mini cut across in half, has wireless 802.11, Ethernet and USB inputs coupled with output via HDMI - the new combined, single-cable digital video and audio protocol, optical audio, component video and RCA

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(phono) audio. The whole thing is powered by a built-in supply.

iTV is controlled with the Apple Remote that operates an enhanced version of Apple's Front Row software.

Jobs described the box as 'the missing piece' - that connects all Apple's digital video offerings, the exact same content that can be played on a computer or iPod, to a TV. It can play movie trailers streamed over the Internet from Apple's QuickTime website. It will also play music and podcasts, including video podcasts, from iTunes as well as display photos and slideshows from iPhoto.

'You can get great content online, download it over the Internet, it's now playing on a computer near you, it's now playing on an iPod near you and it's coming soon to a TV near you,' Jobs said. 'Apple is in your living room.'

iTV - under its new name - will be available in the first quarter of 2007 for $299.