The Telegraph reported Apple would unveil an update to its AirPlay platform at its rumored Sept. 12 media event alongside the next-generation iPhone. Currently being referred to as “AirPlay Direct” internally, the updated platform will allow users to stream media from an iOS device to speakers without the need for Wi-Fi. According to the report, AirPlay Direct is a working title and could be subject to change. The feature, perhaps called “AirPlay 2.0”, would virtually allow AirPlay to setup its own network via Bluetooth 4 between devices to play music—which could be very useful.
Several rumors have pointed to Apple including a revamped, smaller dock connector to its lineup. The updated AirPlay is said to compensate for the change, because devices with an updated connector can’t connect to an outdated dock. As we reported last December, Apple told manufacturers about plans to make changes. Apple stressed the need for manufacturers to get their devices Bluetooth 4 ready. Bluetooth 4 was first introduced on the iPhone 4S last fall, with the third-generation iPad and Apple TV following in the spring, thus making for the perfect setup.
AirPlay was originally announced in the fall of 2010, allowing customers to stream music from their iOS device to speakers via Wi-Fi. The platform has since been updated to stream the screen of the iPad and Mac to an Apple TV. Users can also stream different types of media from iOS, and it is not clear if the revamp will affect media other than songs (the report did not make that clear).
