What to expect at Wednesday's Apple event

08.09.2009
We're less than 24 hours away from , an invitation-only press session in San Francisco Wednesday that's expected to focus solely on Apple's music-related products.

As always when there's an Apple event, will be there in full-force. Look for our to start at 10 a.m. PT, with reports, pictures, and even from the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater.

But what will those reports, picutres, and tweets reveal? Or to put it another way, what does Apple have in store for us at this year's edition of its annual fall music event?

, 'tis the season for new iPods. Apple traditionally refreshes its iPod lineup in September to get ready for the holiday shopping season. In September 2008, Apple . September 2007 saw the . And September 2006 brought to iPods. You get the idea.

This time around, Apple is rumored to be adding cameras to its iPod classic and touch models. is an interesting question, but it would add a new dimension to Apple's media players. However, some reports claim that and may not release such products on Wednesday.

Wednesday could also be notable for products that get discontinued--specifically the iPod classic. After last year's iPod unveiling , the classic's days appeared numbered. , Technologizer.com's Harry McCracken thinks it may be a little early for the classic to exit stage left.

Another rumor being bandied about contends that a new version of iTunes is nigh. This update--iTunes 9, perhaps?--could include interactive elements, photos, lyrics, and more with purchased music (the so-called ), as well as iPhone/iPod touch app organization capabilities and perhaps even Blu-ray support or DVD-ripping.

And then there's the perpetual rumor of The Beatles finally making their way onto the iTunes Store--this year's version of the rumor has timed the Beatles' long-delayed arrival at iTunes to coincide with the release of the band's remastered catalog. Those rumors have cooled considerably in recent days, only to be rekindled by a story Tuesday that none other than Yoko Ono has that The Beatles were soon to appear on the iTunes Store. (EMI's global catalog chief has since , so it looks like future generations will get to continue the annual tradition of guessing when the Beatles' music might wind up on iTunes.)

Finally, everyone is taking bets on whether Steve Jobs will attend or participate in Wednesday's event. The Apple CEO recently after a six-month leave of absence that included . Jobs hasn't appeared at an Apple event since October 2008 when the company .

Be sure to tune in Wednesday at 10 for our up-to-the-minute coverage.