The rumor mill has it that Oct 4th is the next big Apple event, in which we can expect to see Tim Cook kick off his term as CEO. Here are some of my thoughts on what we can expect , in no particular order (note that I’m skipping all the pre-announced stuff, like iOS 5, etc):
No Steve Jobs
A variety of folks are speculating on whether or not Jobs will make an appearance. I’d say absolutely not, other than possibly in the audience. Jobs walking on stage would undermine Tim’s role as CEO and send a weak message to the media. It’s time for Cook to run the show, and Wall Street in particular will be paying close attention to his every move (yet another example of how Wall Street’s mere presence harms us, but I’ll save that snarky feeling for another time. too late). Granted I think we’d all love to see Jobs make an appearance, but unless they can figure out a way to do so without sending a lack of confidence message, I’d assume he stays on the sidelines. This, by the way, will lead to rampant speculation about his health, again (under the veiled theme of “its news!” – tip: it isn’t, let the man be.).
Major Refreshes to Most Products
With one exception (below), I believe almost every product the company makes will get a refresh, either major or minor. We already know about iPhone 5 and iOS 5, but rumors across everything else have showed up as well. Per the above, it’s time for Cook to show his quality, and I think they’ll opt for over-delivering.
No iPad Updates
It’s just too soon. Apple would frustrate their existing (huge) iPad base, and steal from whatever they’ll be doing in 2012. Also, a complete dearth of competition in the space enables them to take their time and raise the bar next Spring.
New Presentation Style
Whomever created the “Steve Jobs Presentation” obviously deserves some kind of award. But what made his style so special is how well it was tuned for Jobs. I believe they’ll re-create the concept for Tim to enable him to deliver his own personal touch. I don’t think it’ll be a massive departure, but I do expect some change.
Major iPod Changes
I wouldn’t be surprised if, starting next month, the iPod product line is reduced to the Touch and Nano (with WiFi), and everything else is gone. That really is the purpose behind iCloud, and just like the company is killing off physical drives, it seems like the traditional iPod isn’t part of the new vision of the Apple digital lifestyle. I’d like to see some minor “apps” for the Nano personally, but that might be a stretch.
One More Thing – iTelevision?
If they even continue with the “One More Thing” it could be the actual launch of the fabled Apple Television Set. Or it could happen in 2013. Or never…
Tune back on Oct 5th to review how I got 5/6 of these things wrong. 🙂