We've heard so much gossip about Apple developing a mysterious television (or possibly a cable box) that it was starting to feel like a certainty that we'd hear something official about the device soon. But a new report suggests that the device won't emerge any time this year.
According to Bloomberg, "a person familiar with [Apple's] plans" explained that negotiations with media companies and cable providers are hindering Apple's ability to push out its new gadget quickly. Some of the "stumbling blocks" in negotiations reportedly include "a tussle for control over the software that determines the screen interface." This means that Apple and media providers are bickering over the actual user experience.
Additionally, there's the inevitable debate over whether Apple's set-top box should be sold directly to users or leased through cable providers. (While it may make sense for Apple to try to sell directly to customers, the equipment could be subsidized through a TV provider, like iPhones are subsidized by mobile carriers, so there are strong arguments on both sides.)
Prior reports have suggested that the so-dubbed iTV will be a magically simple yet super smart television or set-top box which will allow users to control media by speaking, gesturing or using mobile devices. There have also been rumors that it is a high-definition television which features "an aluminum construction, Siri, and FaceTime video-calling."
We'll have to wait a while to see which rumor pans out, as Apple is not prone to commenting on idle gossip.
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