Apple has reportedly acquired Wi-Gear, a small San Francisco-based company known for its wireless Bluetooth audio products for the iPod and iPhone. Citing an unnamed source, 9 to 5 Mac reports that Apple purchased the iMuffs maker for an undisclosed sum. The company’s website now states that “Wi-Gear has ceased operations and is no longer in business. We will be unable to respond to any inquiries.” According to the report, Apple is planning to build its own stereo Bluetooth headphones using technology and expertise from Wi-Gear; Wi-Gear co-founder Michael Kim’s LinkedIn profile now lists him as an iOS Bluetooth Engineer at Apple, having joined the company two months ago.
Update: Wi-Gear CEO Mark Pundsack has denied the report that Apple purchased the company, saying it’s still available for sale, and ceased operations due to lack of funding.
