Apple is expected to unveil the long awaited tablet computer at 10am Pacific Time (6pm GMT) on Wednesday, January 27th at an invitation-only event. But what might it mean for radio?
The likely target for the Apple tablet will be the living room, with families using it for gaming and entertainment instead of the family computer or TV. It’s almost certain to use the iPhone operating system, with a higher resolution screen, more powerful hardware and a 10 inch screen.
The opportunity is for radio businesses to build on their experience with already successful smartphone applications – to create an even more engaging and interactive experience which makes the most of the larger screen. The Pure Sensia has already provided examples of how this could function, with the added features complimenting the audio content, rather than detracting from it.
In terms of audio features, the most-educated guess is that it will have the same connectivity as the current iPhone 3GS with a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack, built-in speaker grills, and a microphone. This allows radio to provide some personal space, even in a family room full of distractions, or allows greater input with user-created audio.
The initial focus of press attention has been around the possibilities for gaming, and for print media. But importantly this is another device which brings radio into the middle of living room conversations.
Dan
