Apple Hints At Possible Blockchain Project
According to an official report, iPhone manufacturer Apple has decided to submit what appears to be an arcane filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The only catch, however, is that the document reportedly contains tantalizing details pertaining to the tech giant’s interest towards the blockchain technology.
Filing of ‘Blockchain’ Document
The document, which is called “Summary of Apple’s Commitment to Responsible Source,” details the firm’s commitment to safeguarding human rights across its global network of suppliers. The latter, in particular, refers to those that support the manufacturing of the company’s mobile communication, as well as personal computers, media devices, and related accessories.
The aforementioned document also notes both of Apple’s internal work on this front and the relations it has with supply chain providers. By essence, the document serves as a large description of the company’s efforts to ethically source materials specifically intended for its titular products like the iPhone series.
Interestingly, the February 15 filing explicitly mentions Apple’s involvement in the drafting of the so-called “Blockchain Guidelines.” These guidelines are believed to be meant for the widely known Responsible Business Alliance’s Responsible Minerals Initiative.
Apple and Blockchain
Also known as voluntary guidelines, these are said to have been published sometime in December last year. More importantly, they define a first industry effort in order to determine a common set of principles, definitions, and attributes solely for the application of blockchain technology. And by doing so, it is expected to provide the much-needed support to mineral supply change due diligence.
Apparently, though, the details that have surfaced do not necessarily touch on what many of Apple watchers would want to know. It is basically whether the Cupertino colossus is on the edge of joining the growing ranks of tech companies that are offering blockchain-powered services.
It does not make sense right now to suggest that Apple is indeed working on a blockchain-related service. But if it is the other way around, it is safe to assume that the tech giant has yet to reveal its card.
Fortune’s very own Jeff John Roberts said in December last year that the question of whether the iPhone manufacturer will join the blockchain space is an active one. This is most especially the case since many in the industry are suggesting that it is going to take a tech giant like Apple to make it possible for blockchain payments to exist and work at a scale.