Apple Streamlining iPhone OS for Apple TV and Other Devices?

A simple job posting by Apple last week may give us a glimpse into the tech giant’s future, as clues indicate Apple is developing the iPhone operating system for more devices. Rumors of such a new direction are sparking innovative product ideas in the imaginations of Apple aficionados. The job listing, which first caught the eye of Computerworld, seeks an engineering manager “to lead a team focused on bring-up of iPhone OS on new platforms.” By expanding the breakthrough iPhone OS beyond the iPhone device, Apple has the opportunity to offer its sleek yet powerful technology beyond AT&T to other wireless carriers, such as Verizon and Sprint, enable an app store to Apple TV and replace Mac OS with the iPhone OS on larger devices.

Expanding to Other Wireless Carriers

It might have been the upcoming release of iPad that prompted the move to more devices, or the anticipated release of the iPhone to more wireless carriers. As it stands, the iPhone cannot run on other networks because their programming languages are incompatible – CDMA for Verizon, and GSM for AT&T. Overhauling this technology to function on multiple networks is a much easier task than developing an entirely new handheld device for each carrier. It gives Apple the opportunity – and control – to offer iPhone capabilities on devices with features preferred by many customers, like the option of a physical keyboard. Customers who have longed for the iPhone’s technology and interface will finally be able to get in on the action without the hassle of switching carriers. It’s also no secret that AT&T customers are upset with their iPhone service; giving them the opportunity to switch carriers while still keeping the technology they love would be a smart move for both Apple and any carrier they partner with.

Offering the App Store for other Apple Products

The real buzz about this “bring-up,” however, is focused on the somewhat forgotten Apple TV device. An iPhone OS on Apple TV could open up the App Store to even more customers, while also allowing greater functionality for Apple TV as a whole. Ars Technica’s Chris Foresman writes, “It would be nice, though, if Apple offered Apple TV apps that let users access other online content like Netflix or Hulu.” If Apple were to do this, they’d be able to compete with up-and-coming devices such as Boxee, and even Netflix’s gaming console-compatible offerings.

Applying the iPhone OS to Other Computers

Another direction Apple may be taking is installing the iPhone OS on full-sized computers, similar to how the Android OS is on Netbook devices. Experts speculate that Apple may feature this upgraded OS on the MacBook Air, which would help lower the cost of the laptop, giving it a brand new look and feel. While people love Apple products, many cannot afford their steep costs. Bringing the functionality of one of their most popular products to more low-cost devices such as Netbooks may help Apple increase its market share.

It seems like a strange move for Apple to broadcast this news in such an informal setting, as they are known for keeping projects and announcements under wraps until the last possible moment — with announcements being made by Steve Jobs himself. Until an official announcement is made, we can only speculate on the future of this project and where Apple will take it. Clearly, they have many feasible options. If this re-purposed iPhone OS eventually does come to fruition, it will no doubt have a major impact on the wireless community, and the computing industry as a whole.

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