I typically don’t speak a lot about the tech world on here, as I tend to more observe that realm than report. I figure I enjoy tech, I like reading about tech, but there are people far, far more qualified than I to report on it.
However, the latest group of rumored moves from Apple (in a 24 hour period, no less!) have me confused, and interested as to their next step.
I make no bones about it, ever since I purchased an iPod back in 2006, I’ve been a devout fan of Apple. It lead to me switching to OSX, and I follow their every move with a general furvor.
Despite this, I really cannot figure where Apple is going right now.
They’re a company in flux with Steve Jobs out with health issues, yet between iTunes, the iPhone and increasing market computing share (not to mention $29 Billion in cash reserves, which is amazing in this economy), they’re in a place that most companies would love to be in.
So what are these moves that are so confusing?
1. A Possible Purchase of Twitter
-Rumors hitting today indicate that Apple may be looking into purchasing Twitter for $700 Million. While Twitter continues to grow (and the iPhone is surely helping, with it’s multitude of dedicated apps), what could Apple see in a company that generates no revenue stream? Sure, when the word was that Google was attempting to purchase it, I could see why, between advertising on keywords and improving Twitter’s search, it’d be a Google Goldmine. But for Apple – what’s the appeal? I can’t even imagine it.
2. An Attempt In The Game Industry
Now this one I’m mostly basing on conjecture, but hear me out. The iPod and iPhone are becoming ubiquiteous devices, and I’m sure while the AppleTV has done fine, they’d want a stronger presence in your home. And hell, apparently the sales of games for the iPod Touch and iPhone have had Nintendo and Sony interested in whether a third competitor would arrive into the already bloody handheld console war.
But with the rumors that Apple wants to purchase EA (who holds a ridiculously large percentage of the home gaming market); and their hiring of Bob Drebin, who designed the graphics processor for Nintendo’s Gamecube, and Richard Teversham, formerly the senior director for insights and strategy at Microsoft’s Xbox Business…this could be the first shot against Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony for the home gaming market.
Could the market hold a 4th system? Maybe not. But imagine if you will…
A set top box similar to the AppleTV, which allows you to stream your iTunes music and movies, download games, and do typical internet based tasks (e-mail, browsing, etc.)…add a possible interface for the iPhone and iPod touch…
Could change the way we see gaming.
What do you think Apple’s up to? Is this the next big step for them? Or a terrible journey down an ugly road? Leave your thoughts in the comments.
