Apple to launch latest gadget after record earnings
Technology giant Apple is to launch its latest gadget today – widely believed to be a video iPod player.
The product, which has been kept under wraps by the company, has been the subject of much media speculation.
Rumours about its shape, size and abilities have been reported, with sources describing it as the next generation iPod.
Today’s announcement comes 24 hours after Apple reported record earnings, with a net annual profit of $1.335bn (€1.113bn), an increase of 384% from 2004.
Apple generated revenue of $13.93bn (€11.62bn), a 68% rise from the year before.
Steve Jobs, CEO of the company, said: “We’re thrilled to have concluded the best year in Apple’s history, with 68% year-over-year revenue growth and 384% net profit growth.
“This is the direct result of our focus on innovation and the immense talent and creativity at Apple.
“We could not be more excited about the new products we’re working on for 2006.”
Details of the anticipated iPod video remain a closely-guarded secret, but it is thought to look like a slimmer version of Apple’s 60GB iPod photo player.
It apparently has a smaller click wheel than the iPod nano, making room for a high resolution colour screen.
There is also speculation that Apple’s iTunes are to be updated with music videos and short video clips for customers to download.
The announcement, billed by Apple as “One more Thing…” will be made at BBC Television Centre in west London this afternoon, via a broadcast from California.
Last month, Apple admitted there was a problem with its new iPod nano only weeks after its launch, with a number of screens cracking and scratching.
