If you've ever wanted to be an Apple TV subscriber, now is a good time to start. Apple has just announced a major price cut for their 160 GB model, which will coincide with the removal of the 40 GB model from shelves. AppleInsider notes that Gene Munster, famed Apple analyst, believes that a substantial upgrade to the line is due shortly. The fact that Apple has consolidated their TV offerings certainly makes that seem likely.

It is doubtful that we'll see new hardware released in the immediate future, but this move is a pretty clear prelude to change. Any new Apple TV service is likely to be based around an iTunes subscription of some sort. iTunes does have an enormous library of media, opening that up for thirty or forty dollars a month could draw in quite a few users.

When the Apple TV model does change it will be in the wake of a long series of negotiations. Major content providers don't do anything quickly. It's entirely possible that Apple has the new technology ready, but are stuck ironing out contract details and unable to release anything. It could be a very long time before we hear any more news. Thankfully we'll have those $229 160 GB Apple TVs to keep us comfortable.