Edible Apple

Citing Japanese sources reportedly involved in Apple’s HDTV efforts, Smarthouse is reporting that Apple’s rumored HDTV will come in 3 different sizes – a 32 inch model on the low end and a 55 inch model on the higher end.

The report further notes that the set will incorporate an A6 processor that will likely first make an appearance in Apple’s upcoming iPad 3. What’s more, the TV will have a unique software interface with built-in Siri integration accessible from iOS devices.

Sources at a major Japanese company who are involved in manufacturing the TV believe that the 55″ model will compete with new Smart TVs from Samsung and LG that will have new processors built in while offering a combination of OLED display, as well as new Super HD TV technology from LG.

Now Smarthouse doesn’t have the best track record with respect to Apple rumors, but their report of varying TV sizes mirrors a recent report from Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster who said that Apple’s HDTV will come in a range of sizes and will cost about twice as much as an equivalent set from other manufacturers.

Previous reports claiming knowledge of Apple’s HDTV plans have indicated that Apple engineer and iTunes developer Jeff Robbin is spearheading Apple’s TV initiative. It’s worth noting that Robbin was held in such high regard at Apple that Steve Jobs demanded that his name not be used in a Time Magazine feature out of fear that rival companies might poach him.

Now there is a a point of contradiction between Smarthouse’s report and one from All Things D that circulated around Thanksgiving. Whereas Smarthouse claims Apple’s HDTV will incorporate a display from LG, All Things D, citing analyst Peter Misek, claimed that the displays would be supplied by Sharp.

Over at Jeffries, analyst Peter Misek suggests that Sharp is retooling a production line at its factory in Sakai specifically to manufacture modified amorphous TFT LCD panels that will be used in the so-called iTV. If all goes well, the line should be ready for commercial production by February of 2012, which means we could see Apple’s take on the TV by midyear.

You might remember that Misek also noted that TV manufacturers are currently scrambling to try and figure out what an Apple HDTV might look like and be capable so as to not suffer the same fate as MP3 and smartphone manufacturers.

via Smarthouse