As the world awaits the arrival of several Apple devices, such as the iPhone 5, iPad mini and what could be a full-sized smart iTv/iPanel in 2013 or 2014, the Cupertino company is reportedly planning its follow-up to the original Apple TV set-top box.

Photo credit: Apple

It isn’t known yet when the device will be released, but some features were revealed in a recent Wall Street Journal report.

Citing unnamed sources, the Wall Street Journal said that the second-generation Apple TV will allow viewers to enjoy their favorite television programs right from the start even, if they are only able to catch it midway through. A video recorder would be used in conjunction with iCloud to save a user’s favorite TV shows and movies.

Additionally, social networking would play a large part in this new device’s functionalities, same with the ability to share media across different Apple gadgets.

The WSJ also reported that it is possible Apple will work more closely with media groups to make more content available to consumers, such as previous seasons of TV programs that are already available through iTunes. The original Apple TV is already capable of playing content from iTunes, though it supports other popular sites including YouTube and Netflix.

The device has sold 6.8 million units since its introduction, and according to Chief Executive Tim Cook, sold 1.3 million between April and June 2012, the months comprising Apple’s third fiscal quarter.