What is the next big thing from Apple?

Seven years since iPhone created history for Apple, it has indeed become more than just a communication tool. It’s a way of life, as Steve Jobs predicted in 2007. Though the success of the iPhone has reshaped the smartphone industry, recent iPhones – seventh generation iPhone 5C and iPhone 5S released in September last year – are still way beyond the reach of the common man in India. The cheaper Android smartphones lead the race here.

But with the New Year, enthusiasts like me are keenly following Apple for clues to their next big innovation, especially for the emerging markets like India and China. Media reports have indicated an unusual interest shown by Apple in these markets, and there is high anticipation of an announcement soon. But given Apple’s culture of secrecy, it becomes difficult to make an accurate prediction. Nonetheless, here is our wishlist of top five innovations from Apple this year.

1. In 2014, wearable technology will lead the trend. Samsung has already launched its Go-Gear watch which is integrated with Galaxy Note 3. There is already a competition in this sector, with another amazing product called Pebble, which easily gets synchronized with Android handsets and iPhones. There are hopes that Apple will release iWatch, considering Tim Cook reportedly praised Nike’s Fuel Band. He was quoted as saying that this space is ripe for exploration.
2. Another wearable technology product that was much talked about was Google Glass. Google has a number of patents for this product, and we hear that the patent filling rank of Google has shot up. There has not been much competition in the eye-tech wear, so chances are Apple may come up with an ‘i’ for an eye technology soon.

1. The next generation of iPhones. This time we expect a larger phone with OLED or curved phone with Retina Eye technology or 4K Technology which will give its competitors a run for their money. iOS 8 is also awaited from Apple’s stable. This will link other Apple products like Mac, iPad via cloud etc.
2. Camera technology is one area where Apple has not ventured into completely. Though iPhones, iPads, MacBooks and other smartphones have internal cameras, a new and better  point and shoot camera has not been seen for some time. Samsung and Nokia did try collaborating but the result was not revolutionary. iCamera could herald a new era for photographers and photography lovers.

1. Google launched ChromeCast which streams online music and videos on TV. A USB device that powers the TV to be connected to internet. We expect Apple to foray into television, making TV and Desktop Computer inter-convertible. Almost all features of a smart TV to every add-ons on a Mac-PC should be present on this. We would like to call it iDeskvision.

What does your wishlist say? Write to us.