Sources: iPod products pulled from Macworld, event may follow
Rumors that something may have been missing from Apple's keynote presentation at Macworld Expo last week may be true, AppleInsider has learned.
Individuals often familiar with the Cupertino, Calif.-based company's plans say Apple's iPod and music-related announcements at the annual trade show were uncharacteristically slim as a result of changes made in the days leading up to the event.
Specifically, Apple is said to have postponed the release of the previously rumored iPod Boombox product due to either: last minute product concerns, component availability or a change in the introduction climate. Apple chief executive Steve Jobs was reportedly less than thrilled with the outcome.
"Other intros got canned at the same time," said a reliable source.
Nevertheless, Apple is expect to take a second stab at introducing the missing products in the near future, and is rumored to be planning a special media event or other high-profile launch that could be announced soon, sources have said.
In the weeks leading up to Macworld, multiple reports indicated that Apple was preparing to extend its foray into the consumer electronics market with a series of new iPod-related products deemed "iPod companions."
Only one such product -- the iPod Boombox -- was described to AppleInsider in any detail, though depending on the report, the details varied.
An initial report described the device as an iPod docking station of sorts, which includes a hard drive and looks like an oversized iPod with boombox-type speakers. However, more recent information portrays the gadget as sleek, single-faced speaker with a rounded grill that emanates true stereo sound.
The latter report also packs an unconfirmed rumor that, through integration with Apple's iTunes jukebox software, users will be able to update content on the Boombox wirelessly from their desktop or portable.
Taking the rumors a step further, sources also report that Apple has been considering a new iTunes content scheme in which the device could tap into, potentially allowing it streaming access to a wealth of amateur content such as podcasts or Internet radio.
While further specifics are unavailable, a recently uncovered Apple trademark filing for the phrase "iPod Boombox" has turned up at Hong Kong's Intellectual Property Department, supporting the existence of the mysterious device in the company's product plans.
Apple in Hong Kong also recently filed for a trademark on the phrase "iPod-HiFi," which makes reference to an unknown iPod product or service.
Individuals often familiar with the Cupertino, Calif.-based company's plans say Apple's iPod and music-related announcements at the annual trade show were uncharacteristically slim as a result of changes made in the days leading up to the event.
Specifically, Apple is said to have postponed the release of the previously rumored iPod Boombox product due to either: last minute product concerns, component availability or a change in the introduction climate. Apple chief executive Steve Jobs was reportedly less than thrilled with the outcome.
"Other intros got canned at the same time," said a reliable source.
Nevertheless, Apple is expect to take a second stab at introducing the missing products in the near future, and is rumored to be planning a special media event or other high-profile launch that could be announced soon, sources have said.
In the weeks leading up to Macworld, multiple reports indicated that Apple was preparing to extend its foray into the consumer electronics market with a series of new iPod-related products deemed "iPod companions."
Only one such product -- the iPod Boombox -- was described to AppleInsider in any detail, though depending on the report, the details varied.
An initial report described the device as an iPod docking station of sorts, which includes a hard drive and looks like an oversized iPod with boombox-type speakers. However, more recent information portrays the gadget as sleek, single-faced speaker with a rounded grill that emanates true stereo sound.
The latter report also packs an unconfirmed rumor that, through integration with Apple's iTunes jukebox software, users will be able to update content on the Boombox wirelessly from their desktop or portable.
Taking the rumors a step further, sources also report that Apple has been considering a new iTunes content scheme in which the device could tap into, potentially allowing it streaming access to a wealth of amateur content such as podcasts or Internet radio.
While further specifics are unavailable, a recently uncovered Apple trademark filing for the phrase "iPod Boombox" has turned up at Hong Kong's Intellectual Property Department, supporting the existence of the mysterious device in the company's product plans.
Apple in Hong Kong also recently filed for a trademark on the phrase "iPod-HiFi," which makes reference to an unknown iPod product or service.
Comments
Originally posted by AppleInsider
"Other intros got canned at the same time," said a reliable source.
Most likely the new iPod Shuffles as Apple would like to make other iPod related announcements to go along with the iPod Boombox. Strange name though. Haven't heard them called that in a long time.
- Jasen.
Taking the rumors a step further, sources also report that Apple has been considering a new iTunes content scheme in which the device could tap into, potentially allowing it streaming access to a wealth of amateur content such as podcasts or Internet radio.
iTunes (and therefore QuickTime's) current Internet Radio facilities suck. The range of stations is miniscule, and the features offered are minimal (compared to some Windows programs). For example, here in the UK only 1 [one] major radio station is compatible with iTunes and QuickTime (that being Virgin Radio). None of the many BBC stations are available at all.
I have an idea that would a) provide an additional revenue stream to both Apple and the Radio stations, and b) as a consequence act as an incentive for Radio stations to use QuickTime friendly streams. If Steve would like to contact me I can provide more details ;-)
Im looking forward to it Steve!
Originally posted by mike12309
steve talked about the new ipod stuff forthcoming DURING the keynote, hes not hiding anything... doesnt anyone remember? The new ipod will be huge... 8 lbs.
Wouldn't it be funny if....
the second device described in this article sounds like it ended up turning into the AppleTV. Kinda interesting.
Wow, this is old old old.