Netbooks are pretty much the only computers on the market that pack integrated 3G wireless cards, but that may soon change if this latest Apple rumor pans out. A new job listing from Apple indicates that the iPhone maker is looking to integrate 3G wireless cards into future Macs. Apple is apparently seeking a Communications QA Engineer, with experience in “one or more Comms technologies ” such as “3G Wireless WAN,” to work in its Mac Hardware Group. The mention of 3G wireless WAN hints that Apple may just be preparing to launch a 3G-toting MacBook in the next few months.
The mention of “Mac” and “3G” in the same sentence gets our hopes up for a future MacBook with integrated 3G connectivity. But, it also bears well for rumors that Verizon is looking to pick up an Apple tablet-like internet device sometime this year. While AT&T’s iPhone exclusivity contract does whatever it is that contract’s do to keep any “iPhone” products off competing US wireless networks, Apple could very well bring a non-iPhone device to Verizon Wireless (loophole, anyone?). And, as a Mac Tablet of sorts, it would make sense that Apple’s Mac boffins are working on the possibly Verizon-bound Apple tablet.
On the other hand, Apple does mention experience with other wireless technologies (Bluetooth, 802.11) in their job listing. We may just be reading too much into a run-of-the-mill job listing for an Mac engineer that has experience with wireless technologies.
Apple’s role as more than just a computer company is fast expanding into the realm of mobile technology. If this particular rumor pans out, we’ll be seeing Apple making more headway into the still-growing mobile market.
[Via: ArsTechnica]