14 DAY TRIAL // Tgdaily is reporting that the previously-noted as "insignificant" Wi-Fi market for the Cupertino-based company is not so insignificant after all. Recent research has shown that Apple currently ranks in fourth in U.S. Wi-Fi retail sales and it is strongly believed that the wireless standard might become Apple's "fourth main business pillar."
Apple's share in the 801.11n Wi-Fi base station market, NPD analyst Stephen Baker says, claimed 10.6% "of the segment terms of unit volume" last month which, of course, only adds to Apple's revenue and profit share on the routers. In an interview with Macworld, Baker stated: "This stuff is just flying off the shelf in the Apple stores. They don?t get nearly enough credit for the value proposition that the stores bring."
If it's any indication, Apple too knows its position in the Wi-Fi market is growing, as the company's Job Opportunities page recently includes a job description for RF System Engineer. According to the specifications, this person will be responsible with joining a group of dedicated researchers of cutting-edge wireless standards such as Mobile TV, UWB and WiMAX, but also 3G and Bluetooth. These technologies are to be implemented in (future or existing) Apple devices.
"The Sr. Wireless system Engineer will be responsible for designing/integrating Apple wireless products, and exploring new wireless technologies," the job description goes. "He/she will work in a technology group on next generation wireless communications products as well as the integration of wireless technology within Apple products. He/she will work proactively with other cross-functional engineering groups such as industrial design, product design, EMC, antenna design, software design and test, and all of the computer system project teams."
Apple claims it will keep an eye out for those who have BSEE or MSEE with 3+ years of relevant industry experience and are "fluent in wireless communications standards and wireless technology."