Apple has files a patent application for Universal Appliance. Apple describes Universal Appliance as “A universal appliance combines the benefits of a fixed-function CE device with the generality of a PC. The universal appliance includes a host environment which can support one or more fixed functions and virtual machines that can provide general computing capabilities (e.g., a Windows OS). The user can select fixed functions and virtual machines for operation on the universal appliance. A universal interface can be provided with the universal appliance that adjusts automatically to display one or more user interface elements for the selected fixed functions and/or virtual machines in an aesthetic manner. Twenty-four hour server functions can be provided with the universal appliance to allow for automatic data backup, remote access to personal data and an Internet telephone that can accept calls 24 hours a day.” So in short the Universal Appliance will integrate phone, play games, serve as cable box, download content, and run computer applications as virtual machine. You can read the complete patent application here.