After many delays, it looks as if Apple is finally ready to show off a new TV.
The relaunch may run on a TV-optimized version of iOS 9, according to a report released late Monday that reveals details on the long-awaited revamped streaming device.
That connectivity to Apple's latest operating system is important because it would give developers the ability to build apps directly for TV, sources told technology website 9to5Mac. The TV's operating system "core" thus opens the door for content providers to release new channels and games directly to consumers' televisions, 9to5Mac reports.
Apple TV's iOS 9 core would enhance certain capabilities. For instance, the device will have universal search across apps and devices, a touch-screen remote that could enable gaming and Siri voice control, according to 9to5Mac.
Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
While sales of Apple TV currently lag similar devices such as Google's Chromecast and Amazon's Fire TV stick, the increased power of an operating system with an app store could be a "huge disrupter," said Jon Brod, co-founder of encrypted online messenger service Confide.
One question Brod has is whether the app store will concentrate on video-centric apps or include gaming, he said on CNBC's "Squawk Alley."
"That big remote is prime for gaming if they [Apple] want to go in that direction," Brod said. "I wouldn't underestimate the power of the app store. If you start getting tens of thousands or millions of apps, it becomes an entirely different experience."
It also means that the new Apple TV could have the benefits of iOS 9, which include a personalized, graphic-rich news aggregator app, split-screen multitasking for tablets, and more options for search, Siri, Maps, CarPlay and Apple Pay, according to Apple's website. The new operating system also boasts longer battery life, and a way to convert Android devices to iOS, Apple's website said.
The report comes as the new TV's debut was delayed from its expected release in June, after TV channel executives like CBS CEO Les Moonves said they were in talks with Apple.
While more "cord-cutting" consumers are scaling back or forgoing traditional cable services in favor of mobile devices, the television experience is still important, Brod said.
"About 60 percent of Hulu streams are still on the big screen.That 10-foot experience is still very meaningful, and Apple obviously thinks there's an opportunity there. "
The TV is now expected to debut as soon as Sept. 9. For more on its specifications, read 9to5Mac's full report here.
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