Rumour - 2012 launch planned for new Apple game console

According to a report by a "Kinect-like video game console" was the reason for Apple CEO Tim Cook's visit to Valve's headquarters last week, which might integrate Steam Box project.

Citing sources, Cult of Mac reports Apple is preparing a new TV set which'll be released later this year and "will come with an Apple-branded, Kinect-like video game console."

The system will apparently rely on motion-based and touch controls, and will ship with a touch screen remote which'll be bundled with the TV.

The website also builds up on rumors of Valve's entry into the hardware industry, connecting the developer posting a job listing for an electronics engineer to join its hardware team, required to assist in creating "whole new gaming experiences." Valve also recently said that it's exploring the field of wearable computing and augmented reality.

If the report is true, this isn't the first time Apple has triedits hand at making video game consoles. The company had created something called the Pippin as early as 1995 by teaming up with Bandai. Pippin was a multimedia console based on the Macintosh OS which allowed users to access the Internet and play games. The system was a big flop, managing to sell a meagre 12,000 units before Bandai decided to pull the plug on it.

Apple is also rumoured to be working on a console style controller for iOS devices.