There are some interesting rumors coming from the usual suspects, suggesting that Apple’s fall product update will not only bring the expected iPod refresh, but also a new Apple TV that may be called iTV. The interesting piece of that rumor is that the new set-top box may include the A4 processor and run on iOS 4.
Such a product would be consistent with Apple’s product strategy and even if some voiced some disappointment that the iTV may be stuck at 720p, there is the logical assumption that it will connect to the App Store. And if it does, it will open up apps to even larger displays than the iPad – your TV. Imagine running your app on a TV. What could it do? What about casual gaming on a TV? It’s entirely possible with an iOS-based iTV.
We may be speculating a bit here, but we believe that Apple will continue to eliminate the borders between different types of devices and eventually allow mobile, desktop and consumer electronics to access the App Store. The implications for iTV include the fact that the box may be bridging the gap into the gaming world and turn into a game console as well. If so, imagine iPods or iPhones to be used as game controllers. There is a whole new opportunity out there, provided Apple will take this step, which we do not know for sure will actually be the case.
However, it may be a good idea to start thinking about Apps that run on much higher resolutions than on the standard iPhone and iPad screen.