The iTV: Apple Could Become Lord Of The 'iRings'
April 3, 2013
The latest “iTV” rumor would make Gollum proud. Apple’s possible television set is said to include an “iRing” accessory that serves as a “navigation pointer.” The television will also include a “mini iTV” screen about the same size as an iPad, according to Apple Insider.
According to Topeka Capital Markets’ Brian White, Apple’s television will debut by the end of the year. His note to investors comes after recent meetings with Apple suppliers in China and Taiwan.
The iRing's purpose would be to replace some of the functionality of a remote. As a pointer, it would allow the TV set to enhance motion detection.
The mini iTV component is said to allow users to view content on a smaller screen. Although the size of that screen, 9.7-inches, matches that of the iPad, it won’t have the same capabilities. Besides entertainment, the screen could also be used for home security, phone calls, video conferencing, and more.
White states:
Essentially, we believe the 'mini iTV' screens will be able to capture content from the 60-inch 'iTV' across a distance of up to 200 meters, allowing a user to view 'iTV' content in the kitchen, washroom, garage, bedroom, backyard, etc. We believe Apple will offer one 'mini iTV' per 'iTV,' but package options will include up to four screens (i.e., one screen is part of the standard package and pay extra for each additional.The analyst says that Apple will price the television between $1,500 and $2,500, depending on the number of mini iTVs a users opts to include, and the size of the screen of the television. White believes that Apple will offer televisions in the 50- to 60-inch range. We’ll keep an eye on White’s suggestions and see whether they are picked up separately by other analysts in the coming weeks. As Apple TV rumors go, these are definitely unique. If a pattern emerges, it could suggest an iRing and mini iTV screen could be in our future. See also: Apple Said To Be Working On Ultra HD Television, and New Job Listing Suggests Apple Is Getting Serious About Apple TV.