We’ve all heard reports that Apple plans to introduce its own television set in the future, although few people take such talk seriously. However, a new report claims that Apple may be working on a new way to deliver video content which differs even from the wireless AirPlay currently in use with iOS.
MacRumors is reporting that Apple may be working on a “new technology to deliver video to televisions,” although there’s little further details on exactly what that might be. According to a new article in The Wall Street Journal on the challenges facing Tim Cook at the new CEO of Apple, the company is also exploring their options for a subscription television service as well.
“An immediate challenge for Mr. Cook will be to advance Apple's plans in what is expected to be a key market for growth: digital video,” the report reads. “Apple is working on new technology to deliver video to televisions, and has been discussing whether to try to launch a subscription TV service, according to people familiar with the matter. Unlike the iPod and music, where Apple has a commanding position, the battle to rule online video remains wide open and the company faces fierce competition.”
Apple currently has a lot of potential with AirPlay, the technology which allows iOS devices to wirelessly send audio or video content to a second-generation Apple TV, although the report seems to hint at something even bigger. The only current limitation of AirPlay is the required Apple TV hardware, as other companies have been slow to adopt the technology in their own equipment.
While it’s hard to imagine that Apple would jump into already crowded waters to created a branded television set, let’s not forget their history of disrupting existing products. From the MP3 player market with the iPod to the cell phone industry with the iPhone and even tablets, which existed -- and generally were ignored -- prior to the iPad, Apple seems to upset the apple cart (pun intended) in most product categories they decide to enter.
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(Image courtesy of MacRumors)
