So I have a few thoughts on why Apple is talking to Intel. First, let me quote this Reuters article to provide context:
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- “To port to an x86 platform would be a massive undertaking and I’m highly suspicious of that,” said Tim Bajarin, an analyst at Creative Strategies, referring to Intel chips.
Apple always has a lot of projects in the works and could be evaluating Intel chips for use in future products, Bajarin said, adding that when Apple co-founder and chief executive Steve Jobs was asked Sunday night at a Wall Street Journal technology conference whether Apple would use Intel chips, “Jobs basically said no.”
So I’m going to assume that porting the Mac OS is not a high priority at Apple these days. What I think is a high priority is wireless. Apple launched its Wi-Fi-power Airport way back in 1997. Here we are eight years later and Wi-Fi is everywhere, particularly in the home.
There have been lots of speculation about Apple launching an A/V equivalent of iTunes. Now, connecting the cable or DSL modem to the TV is a hurdle we’re seeing lots of companies tackle, with limited success.
I’ve spoken to a number of techs who see WiMAX as the next-generation home wireless technology. That’s because only WiMAX can stream multiple streams of HDTV content in difficult RF environments to all ends of the home.
Apple is also rumored to be getting into the smart phone business. I’d certainly love to see how they could simplify my Palm Treo 650. But what wireless technology are they going to support if and when they do get into this business? I wouldn’t bet on EV-DO and I don’t think they want to bother with EDGE or HSDPA either. Apple likes to lead with wireless technology, not follow.
I think Apple sees a lot of opportunities with WiMAX. And I think Intel sees a lot of opportunity in getting Apple to support WiMAX. Because the applications that WiMAX will support don’t really exist yet. Sure, we’re going to see wireless last-mile proliferate using WiMAX, but that’s the easy part.
Perhaps all that Apple and Intel are talking about right now is processors. But I have to believe that there are people on both sides of the room thinking WiMAX.