Apple seeking next big direction, says co-founder

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Apple is in a waiting period with the U.S. gadget giant seeking the “next big direction” almost two years after the death of its ground-breaking boss Steve Jobs, the company’s co-founder Steve Wozniak says.

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Wozniak, speaking at a forum this week in Mexico City, insisted that Apple remains a “great company” with its “own culture” and a collection of trademarks despite its leader’s death.

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Wozniak, a childhood friend of Jobs who co-founded the company in the mid-1970s, countered critics who say Apple has failed to offer innovative products since the latter lost his battle with cancer in October 2011.

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“I think Apple is in one of these waiting periods waiting for the next big direction,” he said.

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“You can’t expect a whole new incredible revolution of a category of existing consumer electronics, you can’t expect that every year,” he added. “If you could have one every year it would be quite a surprise.”

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Jobs unveiled the second-generation iPad tablet in March 2011, his last presentation. Last year, the California company launched the iPad mini and the iPhone 5.

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Apple has filed a trademark application in Japan for a product named “iWatch” and reports say similar paperwork was filed in other countries, including Mexico and Taiwan, fueling speculation that it is preparing to introduce a device that can be worn around the wrist.

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Wozniak appeared to hint as much, telling the Mexico City audience that devices are getting smaller.

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“I think, oh my gosh, I just wish I had the old iPhone right here on my wrist and I wish I could ask it questions like a new Siri (voice assistant technology) or tell it to play certain music,” the 62-year-old said.

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