Apple CEO Tim Cook, under pressure from investors to deliver a new wave of innovation, told Apple employees in his year-end memo that the company in 2014 has “some big plans that we think customers are going to love.”
“We have a lot to look forward to in 2014, including some big plans that we think customers are going to love. I am extremely proud to stand alongside you as we put innovation to work serving humankind’s deepest values and highest aspirations,” Cook wrote. “I consider myself the luckiest person in the world for the opportunity to work at this amazing company with all of you.”
That’s according to a report by 9to5Mac, which obtained and republished a copy of the message.
Cook’s message doesn’t provide any specifics about the company’s 2014 plans. While the rumor mill has died down over the holidays, there have been rumblings this year of a forthcoming Apple smartwatch, as well as new products from the company focusing on the home TV.
The rest of the letter highlighted the company’s achievements during the past year, including contributions to the Red Cross’s relief efforts, its advocacy for an expansion of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act to prevent employers from discriminating against people based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and the company’s new products, including the new U.S.-built Mac Pro.
The company has brought on a number of high-profile new hires as direct reports to Tim Cook, including Paul Deneve, the former CEO of fashion house Saint Laurent, and Ben Shaffer, the former director of Nike’s Innovation Kitchen.
The pressure is on for Apple to revolutionize another industry, and soon. Cook’s letter is sure to stoke those fires.
What do you think Apple’s “big plans” are? Let us know in the comments.
