Apple may revisit the idea of a smart TV

Back in the late 2000s, there were rumors that Apple was developing its own TV, not just a streaming device like the Apple TV. Steve Jobs even claimed to have figured out how to add this product to the company’s portfolio, but his ideas weren’t realized until his tragic death. In the new issue of his Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman reports that Apple may revisit the idea of a self-branded TV.

Power On.

Gurman didn’t provide details, but noted that the TV discussion was part of a larger topic – Apple’s upcoming smart home device. He also added that reigniting the TV depends on the success of the new smart home device, as HomeKit remains the least popular platform among the top three competitors.

Hurman did not provide details, but said that the TV was part of a broader discussion about Apple’s upcoming smart home device.

Problems in entering the TV market

If Apple decides to create its own TV, it will face some serious competition. The TV market is already crowded with big players like Samsung, Vizio, and Sony, and it will be tough to squeeze into this saturated segment. Moreover, while Gurman didn’t mention a possible price, it’s logical to assume that an Apple TV will be expensive. The “Apple tax” problem – the famous brand surcharge – could make the product too expensive for most buyers.

Apple’s “Apple tax” problem could make the product too expensive for most buyers.

How Apple could stand out in the TV market

In order to compete with established brands, Apple needs to offer something special. For example, it could introduce a TV with integrated streaming for Apple TV, which could be a competitor to systems like Chromecast. Apple will need to stand out not just through design, but also in terms of screen specs, so that customers see its TV as an advantage over cheaper and more proven models.

Apple will need to stand out not just through design, but also in terms of screen specs, so that customers see its TV as an advantage over cheaper and more proven models.

If the company decides to equip its TVs with Retina technology, it could be a major advantage, but the price of such a product could be prohibitive for many people.

And if the company decides to equip its TVs with Retina technology, it could be a major advantage.

While the idea of an Apple TV remains at the rumor level, it fits in with the company’s overall strategy to expand its share of the home market. Whether Apple can compete in an already saturated segment remains to be seen.