probably one of the larger software developers could introduce a new game console.

I see Apple creating something to compete with DS or PSP... i can't see anybody making a new console these days, too much money and too much competition.

Way back in the day in the 70's and 80's companies used to just take "off the shelf"/stock parts like processors, soundchips and make a custom system out of them, thats why there were so many systems out there.

Then companies like Nintendo and Sega started getting more advanced and developed their own custom hardware, and once Sony entered the market with their massive muscle (and later Microsoft) there just wasn't any room for a company to release yet another game system using nothing but generic parts and playing generic games.

I could be wrong, but I think Apple would be (far) better off if they partnered with one of the current console manufacturers than if they tried to produce a console on their own ... Essentially, this is the same thing I argued with Nokia ... Had Nokia partnered with Nintendo and created a cellphone that included a Gameboy Advance in it they would have produced a far more popular product than the nGage was.

Check my profile - I predicted that by the end of this year rumours of a 4th major player would be rampant and by 2010 another system will be on the market.

I'm still sticking to that. Nintendo has shown the market can be expanded. Nintendo has also shown they don't have the resources to meet that expanded markets demands (Wii, Wiifit chronic shortages).

This provides an oppurtunity for a well position, savvy company to come in and take over the market expansion leadership from Nintendo. Or at least try to.

Apple is best suited for this but it could come from anywhere really.

However, it may not be in the form of a console as it's traditionally considered. It could be Apple TV Plus (IE: a true multimedia machine that blows MS & Sony's attempts at the same out of the water).

 Yes them are some pretty bold perdiction's but it would be nice to see another console in the war of gaming

I don't know, 4 consoles in the market is a lot.

People still argue weather the market is big enuff to hold 3 console makers, so I can't see a 4th player taking the risk. Toshiba is out of the question (they lack connections to the gaming industry and the name "Toshiba" sucks).

But I can see Apple indirectly competing with handhelds if they make one of their devices very gaming friendly.

Electronic Arts or Apple.

or it could be some completely random and unexpected company

EA will make a console...

I'm thinking Apple... and it will be HUGE.