So it seems Google CEO Eric Schmidt has joined Apple’s board, and speculation runs rampant as to what this could all mean. Obvious predictions of bundling Google software and integrating Google web services with Macintosh computers fly about, and then there’s the obligatory mention of Google Video somehow moving onto the iPod and the Apple Music Store, etc. However I get the feeling there is an area of expertise that Google can lend Apple in some future product, software or hardware, that hasn’t been announced yet.

For example note how Millard Drexler, the former GAP CEO likely proved instrumental in the design and execution of the now-successful Apple retail stores. Both Apple and GAP stores have that clean, modern look, that both showcase and advertise the products. When the Apple stores first came out, many thought they would flop. I’m sure Jobs and Apple knew it would be a risky strategy and wanted someone with expert retail experience to help design and guide the project.

Because of this, I have a strange feeling that Google has been brought on board for potentially two reasons: One, some software innovation regarding OSX that is in development. It could be something not yet mainstream like networked computing. I recall several years ago when iMacs were able to “net boot” and there was yammering about how computing’s future was a “dumb” cheap terminal with all of its software and applications stored on a server.

The second feeling has to do with Google’s free muni WiFi in Mountain View and soon San Francisco. I wonder if there is some connection here with the presently non-existent Apple iPhone. I’m still reluctant to believe a VOIP phone is mass-market feasible, but a WiFi enabled iPod makes some sense.

I really have no clue how the pieces fit together, but I’m sure it will be interesting.

Disclosure: I own a tiny amount of Apple stock.

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