Apple Netbook Rumors Won't Quit

According to Digitimes, "Wintek revealed that it is currently working with Apple to develop some new products, but it said it does not know what applications the new products are for." The manufacturer added that it has no shipment schedule and can't confirm what will be the finished product.

But the revelation has the Web buzzing that this move marks Apple's first foray into the netbook market, regardless of Steve Jobs' and Tim Cook's past comments.

From a strategy standpoint, finally moving into the netbook market long after it has been established would be in line with Apple's usual modus operandi.

Typically, the Cupertino crew waits for a market to develop. After watching and evaluating how the competition operates, Apple designs a product that typically leaves the rest of the market in the dust.

Of course, another key part of Apple's strategy is to price the product much higher than the competition. And Apple knows that its loyal customers will pay for the features and designs that company is known for.

Whether or not the Wintek admission will actually be translated into a functioning netbook from Apple remains to be seen. It is possible that it could be smoke and mirrors, hiding the true intentions of the manufacturer.

But as netbooks continue to sell and customers continue to choose low-cost, highly mobile computing systems, it seems that it will be harder and harder for Apple to ignore the market.