TheTechStorm has been informed by a very reliable source that Apple is set to launch a full-fledged TV later this year.
Before I go into details of what I know, I would like to provide some background to how this story came about. TheTechStorm is a new blog that focuses mainly on reporting on Apple related news.
Consequently, I have been working very hard to find a source within the company (not someone from its supply chain in Asia) with inside information, which will enable me to publish articles that are relevant and valuable to Apple fans. Fortunately, my hard work paid off.
I would also like to refer readers to the following articles previously published on this site: Gene Munster on Apple’s Plans for 2013, Brightcove CEO On The Future Apple TV and Apple’s iTV Will Be A 42-Inch iPad. As you can see, none of my previous articles mentioned any contact with a source, this is my first article relating to the Apple iTV based on inside knowledge. What I’m trying to say here is that I’m not going to put the credibility of this blog at risk for a one off pageview hit.
According my source, Apple is definitely building a full-fledged TV. I was told that Brightcove CEO Jeremy Allaire piece – All I Want for Christmas Is My Apple TV, nailed it.
The TVs will be coming in two form factors, a new companion device for TV, similar to what Apple is offering at the moment and a full-fledge ultra-thin TV. I was also informed that Apple will be sourcing panels for this TV from Sharp.
Back in October 2012, Bloomberg reported that Foxconn Chairman Terry Gou is looking to buy a stake in Sharp Corp, however, the two companies are finding it difficult to settle on a price.
According to Bloomberg:
[quote] Foxconn Chairman Terry Gou has backed away from buying a stake in Sharp after falling demand for TVs and display panels prompted the company to widen its annual loss forecast eightfold. Foxconn Group said it would renegotiate an earlier deal to buy 9.9 percent of the company for 67 billion yen ($863 million) as shares have fallen 61 percent since that announcement. Sharp said Sept. 28 it received 360 billion yen in financing from two banks.[/quote]
Finally, I was told that Apple will be unveiling this TV for Christmas 2013. Again, Mr. Allaire got this right too.
Be sure to Instapaper this piece and stay tuned to TheTechStorm for further updates.
