Apple-centric area at CES

While rumors of Apple's appearance at CES 2010 continue to swirl, a new report says that the Consumer Electronics Association has confirmed plans to host a Apple-centric area at next year's annual electronics show. Despite a second report that echoed echoed Apple's move from Macworld Expo to CES, Apple has still not commented on whether it plans to participate, according to CNET News.com.

The report says that Jason Oxman of the CEA confirmed on Saturday that the group is planning on hosting a "special area at the 2010 CES to Apple-related CE manufacturers." The new area may be the final nail in the coffin for Macworld as vendors may migrate to the larger consumer-focused show in Las Vegas. Apple last week announced that it would be pulling out of Macworld Expo beginning next year because it no longer felt trade shows were an effective means of reaching its customer.

"We decided to create this special area based on discussions we've had with companies regarding 2010 show participation. We are pleased with the feedback we've received regarding this space," Oxman told the publication in an e-mail.

Acknowledging a relationship with the tight-lipped Cupertino-based company, Oxman refused to comment on whether Apple would have a presence within the area and deferred all questions to the company itself, the report said. CNET News.com reports that Apple, however, did not return calls seeking comment on reports that it will be involved.

"(Apple) is a member of the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and we are delighted to have a longstanding relationship with them," he told the publication.

by MacNN Staff