Apple joins Avid in NAB snub

Apple has followed its arch rival Avid and pulled out of the NAB2008 trade show, leaving the big Las Vegas conference without the two major suppliers of editing solutions. Apple announced its decision not to participate late last week, saying it was focusing on its shops and online site as its major sales channels. Avid last year pulled out of the April show. Both had major exhibits last year with Avid having 350 staff associated with the exhibit.

Apple's decision to not attend comes after chief executive Steve Jobs last month announced Apple's intention to pursue a more aggressive online video strategy. Jobs announced video rentals would be made available from iTunes. Both Avid and Apple's decision not to go to NAB2008 was being seen as a cost cutting exercise in the face of softer demand by media players who in turn are seeing ad revenue taper. Apple has been enjoying increased market growth in the media sector since adopting an Intel chip in their machines. Sony, the other player in the video editing sector is still planning to attend NAB2008.

For more:
- Apple wins media acceptance but eschews trade show Article
- Apple and Avid wont be at NAB Article

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