Internet HDTV Category
High Definition TV over a broadband connection
Another day, another set of Apple television set rumors. 2012 is either going to be the year Apple finally unveils its plans for TV hardware or that the world realizes some of these Apple rumors never actually amount to anything real.
Apple TV Set
Rumors of an Apple-built and branded television set have cropped up several times over the past few years. They ramped up considerably in light of Steve Jobs passing away, as he revealed his belief that he had “finally cracked it” prior to his death in 2011.
By December Apple execs were reported to be confident enough in the project to be actively talking to media companies. Partnerships would be needed for content, always the key component in determining whether an innovative new product flies or dies.
Smart TV sets sold well in 2010, with figures higher than previously estimated. And that trend looks set to continue right on up until 2015. The problem is no one has taken firm control of the interface and content, meaning the whole thing is currently a messed-up mish-mash.
Sony has unveiled its new Google TV products - a range of television sets of all sizes and a Blu-ray player. But they’re not cheap and I’m not convinced consumers will accept the extra expense at this stage in time.
The past week has seen intense speculation as to whether a leak regarding Apple’s plans for the underwhelming and under-performing Apple TV is real or not. Could it really be renamed iTV and priced at just $99?
It’s estimated that almost half of all new TV sets sold in 2013 will be capable of connecting to the Internet. Which is great. However, it’ll only actually be useful if some level of standardization is pursued rather than the numerous proprietary systems currently being introduced.
