The latest Apple TV set-top box is app-centric with significant game support, Apple revealed today at a press conference in San Francisco.

It runs on a 64-bit A8 chip, and will run a new operating system based on iOS called tvOS.

Apps and games will be controlled with a new remote that features motion control, two microphones, and a touchpad.

Third-party controllers will also be supported via Apple's MFi system, and iOS devices can also serve as controllers.

Among the games already in development for the set-top box are Crossy Road, Transistor, Rayman Adventures, Guitar Hero Live, Geometry Wars 3, and Disney Infinity 3.0.

New title Fantastic Plastic Squad, a third-person shooter inspired by 1980s cartoons and action figures, is also in production for the platform from former Medal of Honor studio head Greg Goodrich.

Like the original Apple TV, video streaming is still the principal feature of the device, with apps like iTunes and Netflix front and centre.

The new Apple TV will release in late October in the United States, and "more than 100 countries" by year's end.