Did Plummeting TV Sales Scare Off Apple?

Despite one analyst's belief that

first television was

, the long-awaited display was nowhere to be found in the first quarter.

Instead of rumors and supply chain reports for a snazzy display, the media shifted its attention to the prospect of a

. Many assumed that this device would take the shape of a watch, enabling consumers to wear and use it with relative ease. This led to a steady stream of rumors about the device and its

from

, Samsung and LG. Meanwhile, Intel

stole the TV spotlight when it announced that it wanted to build a new service that could bridge the gap between cable and Internet television. No one knows exactly what the service will entail, but it will ship with a set-top box that includes a camera that is designed to deliver a more personalized experience. Intel has said that privacy-conscious users will be able to close the camera lens. Typically this would not be news. Aside from any controversy that may come as a result of the camera, the Intel initiative could have been written off as just another Google TV clone. However, Google tried to conquer TV without the help of content partners. Intel is expected to take another route. The company has hired

from Apple,

and Google to build its service, which may launch within the next year. As many as

could be working on the project this year. More than 300 individuals have already been added to the Intel Media team. While it is possible that Intel's efforts

, there may be another, more plausible reason for Apple's absence. According to new

, domestic TV shipments declined 5.8 percent in 2012 and will drop another 2.7 percent in 2013. Unlike smartphones, which are replaced rather frequently, TVs are designed to last for a good five to 10 years. With proper care, LCD or LED sets can run for more than 15 years. If used sparingly, they can last even longer. Thus, consumers that already spent $1,000 on a

TV may not be eager purchase an Apple display. This could make it very difficult for Apple to sell a significant number of units, especially as sales decline. Those who are willing to upgrade, however, may be persuaded to spend

than they did on their last TV purchase.