Backstage
Graphic: Micro-Projectors in iPods or iPhones, Or, Don’t Hold Your Breath
Sure, Apple could build a miniature video projector into iPods and iPhones, as per the rumors du jour. But the chances of this happening any time soon are really, truly low. Here’s why.
A few other reasons it’s unlikely: the parts aren’t cheap, they’re highly susceptible to failure, and users haven’t been asking for the functionality. This isn’t to say that other companies won’t try, but Apple is not going to be first or even early on this particular bandwagon.
Comments
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1
not completely true… LED projectors are AT LEAST twice as small as the projector show here. Still it would make the iPhone bulkier, but give it some time, and its feasible
Posted by Whacko on July 6, 2009 at 9:52 AM (PDT)
2
Laser-diode based projectors are smaller still and are being developed now.
Posted by wsack on July 11, 2009 at 4:25 AM (PDT)
3
The laser-diode based units will not require a fan, bulb, or even a lens. The amazing thing about such a system is that it is always in focus no matter where it is projected.
Posted by wsack on July 11, 2009 at 4:41 AM (PDT)