Future of Apple TV: What is Up With the Future of Apple TV?

Future of Apple TV: During the Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) first quarter earnings call that took place yesterday, CEO Tim Cook talked about some of the “incredible stuff” that the company has in its pipeline. While he did not go into further detail regarding new products, many are continuing to wonder if an Apple TV is on the horizon. This is something that has been alluded to in the past. And of course, it is something that a lot of people are quite interested in.

Despite the fact that everybody wants to learn more about the future of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) TV, Cook does not seem too excited about sharing any specific details with the general public.

Here is what he had to say yesterday when asked about the potential for an Apple TV, as reported by CNET:

“There’s a lot we can contribute in this space so we can continue to pull the string and see where it leads us.”

Even knowing that millions of people were hoping for more, Cook did not share any concrete information pertaining to the finer workings of an Apple television or a potential release date. This is extremely frustrating for consumers interested in buying as well as investors.

The CNET article goes on to add the following information:

“The company sold more than 2 million Apple TV devices last quarter, according to Cook. This is up from 1.4 million devices from the same period last year.”

“Cook’s answer sounds a lot like his response to a similar question from the same analyst, Piper Jaffray’s Gene Munster, during last year’s call.”

“Instead of answering the question, which relates to speculation over the possibility of an Apple-built TV, Cook pointed to the success of the Apple TV device. He said the device is favored by a “small niche” of people, a group that has grown. That’s sort of different from “hobby,” right?”

As you can see, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s Cook prefers to answer this question the same way, time and time again.

It is not as if the current Apple TV set-top box has been a complete bust. While it is no substitute for the television, it does bring a lot to the table in terms of functionality.

“The company said in October that it sold 5.3 million Apple TV set-top boxes in 2012. The device connects Web videos and other media to the traditional television, but it isn’t a full blown substitute for TV.”

What are your thoughts on the future of an Apple TV? Do you think it is coming in 2013?

Check back here for more updates on Future of Apple TV.

DISCLOSURE: I have no positions in any stock mentioned.

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