In an effort to integrate all the consumer electronics, Apple is looking to launch their own Internet-connected HDTV this year, joining a crowded $100 billion market, says AppleInsider.
The rumor comes via Ticonderoga Securities analyst Brian White who says "data points point towards a 'Smart TV'" launch by Apple.
This "Smart TV" would not be just an updated AppleTV set-top box, but instead be "a full-blown TV product for consumers," says White in a client note.
While there have been rumors for years of Apple considering entering the market, White says the company is now "moving down this path at a faster pace than the market expected."
Concludes the analyst:
Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray says the TVs will come at a premium, starting at around $2000.
This "Smart TV" would not be just an updated AppleTV set-top box, but instead be "a full-blown TV product for consumers," says White in a client note.
While there have been rumors for years of Apple considering entering the market, White says the company is now "moving down this path at a faster pace than the market expected."
Concludes the analyst:
The combination of Apple's powerful ecosystem, industrial design savvy, powerful brand and ability to reinvent product categories could make Apple a powerful force in the TV world over the next few years.
Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray says the TVs will come at a premium, starting at around $2000.
