Google TV has no shortage of competitors lately (even from Google’s own Chromecast), but the biggest competitor is probably still Apple TV. Apple’s popularity and its box’s connectivity with its mobile devices is a huge reason for its success, but we keep moving forward and no new device has shown up. It’s time for an upgrade and it seems it is right around the corner.

Shipment tracker Panjiva claims that Apple has received at least three shipments from BYD Precision Manufacture in August. BYD happens to be one of Apple’s newest partners and they don’t seem to be wasting time. These boxes were labeled as “Set Top Box”. These have to be new Apple TVs, right?

Recent rumors of a full-on Apple TV (screen and all) have been spreading, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. At least if we are to believe this rumor. A new Apple TV is totally due for, though. We haven’t seen an upgrade lately and it is time Apple brings something new to its smart TV platform.

Google TV and Chromecast are pretty much the biggest hits in smart TV technology lately (aside from Apple). What could Apple’s next move be? Maybe more services and partnerships? More features? We won’t know until the announcement, which could very well be on September 10 (when we expect to see the new iPhones).

This brings a very good topic for discussion, so we would love to hear from you! What do you think could be Apple’s big move? Will they beat Google TV/Chromecast?

[via iSource]