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Though portability has been at the forefront of Apple’s game plan since the introduction of the first iPhone, a new rumor reinforces recent speculation that your living room could be where Apple sets its sights next–specifically with a 55-inch OLED TV.
Apple may be introducing the set sometime in 2012, according to a source cited by Smarthouse, an online lifestyle technology guide, who claims that recent deal-seeking from Apple includes distribution rights for the television.
Among the rights Apple are after are current TV shows being aired in the U.S.A., claims a Hollywood lawyer who believes that Apple will launch a new TV in 2012.
A big-screen television running iOS is certainly intriguing, especially with the breadth of content deals Apple already has in place through iTunes.
Recent reports have Apple at the table with LG Display, the company that helps produce screen technology for many Apple products, to possibly discuss screen requirements for the rumored new OLED TV. LG just announced its own plans to produce a 55-inch OLED TV.
LG, along with Samsung, is rumored to be vying to supply Apple with LCD panels for the third-generation iPad.
Related links
Analyst: Apple ripe for HDTV and ‘Genius Squad’
The implications are interesting, as rumors of Apple acquiring streaming video content site Hulu have been hot for the last few weeks. With Apple dominating the tablet market with the iPad and maintaining a strong hold on the smartphone market with the iPhone and the high-end PC market with Macs, it seems like logical timing to explore another market. A report by UBS Investment Research earlier this month suggested that very market could help boost Apple’s market cap anywhere from $50 to $100 billion.
And before you think that there’s no way Apple could penetrate an already oversaturated big-screen television market, remember how no one thought the iPhone would make a difference. Right now it would be hard to bet against any product Apple releases, especially if its current product lineup (and stock price) is any indication.
Would you be into buying a 55-inch OLED TV from Apple? What features would it have to have? Let me know in the comments!
