Briefly: Apple Japan moves, Archos iPad kb, Iger on Jobs
updated 01:49 am EST, Fri January 25, 2013
Apple Japan relocating Tokyo headquarters to suburb in spring
Apple will be committing upwards of $2.2 billion in order to take over two whole floors of the 54-story Mori Tower as it relocates its Apple Japan headquarters from one part of the capital city to another. Mori Tower is the centerpiece of Roppongi Hills, a high-end business property development, reports Bloomberg. Apple Japan is presently located in Tokyo Opera City Tower and plans to complete the move before the beginning of summer. One reason for the move could be related to the real estate market: office rentals are down to less than half of what they fetched at their peak, about five years ago. Securing a long-term lease ahead of an expected recovery in the market could save Apple money, though the length of the new lease hasn't been revealed.
Archos unveils Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad
Though it is best-known for producing competing music players that function as rivals to the iPod, Archos has recently gotten into the iOS-accessories industry, starting with a new iPad-specific Bluetooth keyboard. The company says it is the thinnest iPad keyboard available, reports iLounge, and compatible with the second through current-generation iPad. The keyboard doubles as both a cover and stand for the device. It features an adjustable kickstand, and will arrive in March with a retail price of $79.
Disney CEO Iger recalls early meetings with Jobs
Entertainment industry trade website The Wrap reported that Disney CEO and Apple board member Robert Iger discussed his relationship with the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs at an industry panel on Thursday. Iger revealed that when he replaced outgoing Disney President Michael Eisner, Jobs was initially cool to him. Eisner and Jobs had been unable to agree on a deal for Disney to buy Pixar, and the disagreements soured their relationship. Iger made calling Jobs one of his first priorities, but Jobs told him that he considered Iger "more of the same." Iger, determined to prove Jobs wrong, continued the relationship and was impressed by Jobs' "relentless" candor and adopted the same approach in dealing with Jobs, which improved the relationship and ultimately led to Disney acquiring Pixar.
