Apple iTV on Foxconn’s Radar, Sharp Acquisition Justified [Report]

Sharp’s IP going over to Foxconn is a telltale sign that the latter is looking to secure production orders from the Cupertino, California-based Apple Inc. for its rumored television product, according to a new report.

Speculated for years, Apple’s full-fledged iTV may finally arrive, according to Ho Chao-yang, former president of Chimei Innolux (CMI) and current chairman of Chi Mei Materials Technology.

Quoted by the hit-and-miss Taiwanese trade publication DigiTimes, Ho Chao-yang noted that “Foxconn Electronics' investment in Sharp is aimed at securing iTV orders from Apple, which will be a positive development for the flat panel industry if the strategy works."

He reportedly added that Foxconn and Sharp are looking at a win-win situation, “and the tie-up is believed to be able to create new markets.”

“In addition to benefiting the flat panel industry, the launch of iTVs will also benefit polarizer makers, including Chi Mei Materials,” Ho reportedly added.

The television set that is reportedly on the table for an unveiling later this year, or next year at the latest, is said to be a full-fledged solution - not another digital media hub that Apple currently regards as a hobby.

Rather, the product is expected to emerge as a complete media center boasting a large display, deep integration with the company’s iTunes Store and iCloud, Siri voice control, as well as so-called “television apps” that will allow customers to subscribe to individual TV stations, such as CNN, BBC, even iTV.

The British broadcaster iTV is reportedly the reason why Apple’s rumored television may not be called iTV, forcing the Cupertino giant to adopt a different moniker.

The two companies previously carried out discussions regarding potential use of the dubbing in Apple’s first TV product. Those negotiations ultimately failed.