Economically, things may be tough all over, but Apple’s research & development spending has increased 13 percent year-over-year and the company has some “great products” coming out in the next 12 months, Apple Chief Financial Officer Fred Anderson said today.
“Over the next year we’ll be introducing some truly great hardware and software as Apple leads the transition to a digital lifestyle,” he said. “For instance, next Tuesday we’ll be unveiling a groundbreaking foray into the digital arena.”
In an intriguing invitation to some members of the media, Apple said it would unveil a “breakthrough digital device” (that’s not a Mac) on Oct. 23. MacCentral has been invited to the event and will bring you coverage next week.
Despite increased investments in new products, opening new retail stores and placing 89 “Apple badged” employees in CompUSA stores, Apple’s operating expenses declined during the recent financial quarter. And despite the tight economy, no major layoffs are planned, Anderson said.
Besides intriguing new products, the December quarter will also offer more bang for the buck. Anderson said it would be a “full quarter” of lower pricing on portables. The iBook and PowerBook lines will be “enhanced offerings at lower average prices,” he added.