Apple has introduced its new Apple TV 3.0 software, featuring a redesigned user interface and compatibility with iTunes LPs and iTunes Extras, as well as Genius Mixes and Internet Radio.

"The new software for Apple TV features a simpler and faster interface that gives you instant access to your favourite content," said Eddy Cue, Vice President of Internet Services at Apple.  "HD movies and HD TV shows from iTunes have been a huge hit with Apple TV customers, and with Apple TV 3.0 they get great new features including iTunes Extras, Genius Mixes and Internet radio."

The new 3.0 software, available free of charge to all existing Apple TV owners, is intended to make navigating favourite content simpler and faster, but has drawn criticism in some quarters for being aesthetically displeasing - or "fugly", as Gizmodo has it. 

Apple's new iTunes LP feature seeks to recreate the visual appeal of LPs of yesteryear by offering expanded visual features such as live performance videos, lyrics, artwork, liner notes, interviews, photos, album credits and more.  iTunes Extras aims to give movie fans additional content such as deleted scenes, interviews and interactive galleries.

The updated software also includes additional enhancements for photo viewing, enabling the Apple TV to take advantage of the Faces and Events features found in Apple's iPhoto desktop application.