According to analyst Gene Munster at Piper Jaffray, a leading international investment firm, the introduction of an Apple-branded television, following on from the success of the iPod and iPhone the "only logical step for Apple".

Apple, suggests Munster, is slowly moving away from traditional computer manufacturing roots to become synonymous with consumer electronics and lifestyle accessories.

"Apple's fantastic ability to create exceptionally user-friendly products could revolutionise TVs just like the iPhone changed the mobile phone market," said Munster.

The analyst claims Apple's $500 (£338) million deal with South Korea's LG Display is proof something is in the air.

In January, LG Display said in a statement to the Korea Exchange: "LG Display has made a long-term agreement to supply a massive amount of LCDs to Apple in the face of uneasy condition of foreign capital inflow amid the global economic downturn."