Wall Street Journal, the most respected Apple rumor source, says that Apple is currently testing various TV designs with Sharp and Foxconn. The latter also produces Apple iPhones and iPads.

Apple is testing TV designs
Wall Street Journal (WSJ) is rarely wrong when it comes to Apple rumors. They have been notoriously correct in the past and therefore most people take it seriously when they have something to say about Apple. Some even speculate that Apple feeds WSJ with hints and facts prior to product launches to create “hype”. WSJ’s reports are typically the first real sign of a new product.


According to WSJ, Apple is testing different TV designs. Here you see the current Airplay functionality found in the Apple TV box

Therefore it is also very interesting that WSJ only one hour ago said that Apple is currently testing various TV designs. They are still said to be in the “early stages” and the TV project is not yet a “formal project within Apple”. Sharp and Foxconn are involved in the testing, according to WSJ. Sharp produces TV panels and has been associated with Apple more than once, based on their impressive IGZO LCDs.

Foxconn produces iPhones and iPads for Apple. Foxconn also recently acquired a large stake in Sharp's display factory. Sharp’s TV plant can produce small and large TV panels. For example, it is already produces 70-90” Sharp TVs.

If the rumors are true, we could see a TV screen from Apple launch in the near future. Testing of the design together with the hardware manufacturers are typically one of the last steps which means that Apple probably has a good idea of how the TV will function.

It also seems that there is already massive interest in an "Apple iTV". We will keep you updated.

- Source: Wall Street Journal