Apple taps Sharp to make displays for Apple TVs

The rumored Apple TV might come into fruition, as an analyst predicted that the smart television might be released in mid-2012, just in time for the Olympics.

As Apple is now shifting display orders for its iPad and iPhones from Sharp Corp., they may also pick the Japanese electronics giant to make TV displays, according to Jeffries & Co. analyst Peter Misek. The analyst wrote his research based on his last visit to the country, talking to manufacturing executives.

“It’s a huge deal for Sharp because they spent significant amounts of capital to try and expand capacity and upgrade their facilities,” he said in an interview. “It gives Apple a partner that they can control manufacturing and secure supply at a lower price.”

The analyst said that Sharp is currently working on retooling a factory in Sakai to make amorphous TFT-LCD displays for what he call the “iTV.” If the commercial production starts in February, we could see the new Apple TV by the middle of next year, or before the company hosts its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).

What the TV can do and the form it will take still remains a mystery. He noted that other TV manufacturers have begun searching for what the new Apple TV will be and what it can do. The analyst added that mainstream manufacturers of TV sets are likely to be around 6 to 12 months behind “in a best-case scenario.”

Any guesses on what the Apple TV can do?

 

via: Electric Pig