In 2009-2011, there were rumors about Apple’s own TV set, and although it didn’t happen in the end, it appears that the company hasn’t abandoned the idea.
How notes Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple «gives» to the idea of creating its own TV, which could be one of a number of new smart home devices. One of them is expected next year — smart display, which insiders call HomePad because of its resemblance to the iPad.
HomePad, according to Gurman, will have a 6-inch screen with thick bezels, a built-in camera, battery, and speakers. It will be mounted on the wall, control smart home devices, work with video calls, etc. — similar to Amazon Echo Hub.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also reported that Apple plans to start production of surveillance cameras for a smart home in 2026.
It will be interesting to see what Apple will offer to successfully compete with LG, Samsung, and other TV brands. At least — better integration with its devices and premium design (although the price will probably be «bite»).
Apple currently sells the Apple TV set-top box, which connects to the TV for streaming.
Before his death in 2011, Steve Jobs told biographer Walter Isaacson that he planned to «reinvent the TV» and it would have «the simplest user interface imaginable». Whereas in 2010, Tim Cook (at the time Apple’s COO) said that «was not interested in the» TV market.
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