Apple Worldwide Developer Conference 2014
I am as excited as anyone for WWDC this year. Like many Apple fans, I have been holding off on buying anything for the last month in anticipation of new hardware announcements. The podcasts, messages boards and blogs have been lighting up with predictions of everything from new mobile devices to new hardware to new operating systems.
What’s a person supposed to do?!
When you have that many choices, the next logical step is to cross off the items you KNOW won’t occur. That will at least help you narrow your search for the next item to buy. After collecting all of the data I could, here is my prediction for the things you will NOT see this year at WWDC 2014.
iTV
People have talked about this for the last 2 years. It’s not going to happen in 2014 – at WWDC or otherwise. It’s not going to happen for 2 reasons:
- Cost – I can buy a 50″ LCD for $800 and have a beautiful picture. An Apple TV will set me back $100. Doing the math, I can get everything I need / want for under $1000. An “iTV” (if that’s what it’s called) will probably cost $4000 – $5000 for a 40″ screen.
- Market – An “iTV” won’t solve people’s problems. The market is not asking for a new TV. People are screaming for more mobile devices and wearables. Fix the content (HGTV, ESPN, Disney, etc.), and people will beat a path to your door.
iWatch
WWDC is typically is hardware conference. I would love to see an iWatch, however, a device this popular needs its own event. When Apple get’s into the wearable market (not counting your iPhone or the square iPod Nano), expect BIG changes to iOS and a plethora of new apps features.
iPhone 6
I have had my iPhone 5 for less than a year and I’m already begging for a change! The Samsung Galaxy S5 is out and there is not a lot of hype or excitement around it. Now is the time to strike while the iron is hot! However, the iPhone, like a perceived iWatch, needs it’s own event. This is especially true if there will be a larger screen, a new iOS and integration with the home.
There will be some good news coming out of WWDC. Look for a refresh of the Apple TV, MacBook Air and Thunderbolt Display (keep your fingers crossed). A preview of the next OS X and iOS 8 are also expected. Look for Angela Ahrendts to make her debut. Dr. Dre and Johnny Iovine will also take the stage for the first time as Apple employees.
WWDC 2014 will be exciting and Apple has announced that it will live stream the event starting at 10 PDT (1 PM EST). Look for a lot of improvements to apps and software, but don’t hold your breath for a new device on your wrist. It’s not that time of year…yet.
