Rumors have been doing the rounds for quite some time that Apple could release their very own digital camera, and many consumers would say that this was made more likely since the release of the Samsung GALAXY Camera. However, what makes us believe that Apple could be considering a rival device to the GALAXY Camera is the fact that they are in the process of purchasing several Kodak digital camera patents.

Apple along with several other companies are looking to purchase around 1,100 patents from Kodak, which is said to be in the value of $525 million. This would mean that all companies in this joint venture would be able to use patents in upcoming products without the fear of suing each other. Now you have to ask yourself why Apple would wish to put into the pot to buy these patents, which is why the idea of an Apple camera does sound all the more convincing – although we’re still awaiting the much-anticipated Apple branded TV as well.

What’s the likelihood of an Apple digital camera? We’ve already seen the huge success that the Samsung GALAXY Camera has had since its release because many consumers believe that it delivers a photo evolution. We also know that Steve Jobs had an interest in the light field camera system and could be implemented in some way on a future iPhone rather than a standalone camera, but surely Apple would be better to have a standalone point-and-shoot camera because it would not be constrained by iPhone hardware and software?

While the idea of an Apple digital camera sounds great, the likelihood of such a device does seem very slim, even if Samsung has had great success with their GALAXY Camera. However, we wouldn’t be at all surprised if Apple are researching a standalone camera.

As reported from Gizmodo, Apple has secured a patent which is all to do about detecting color correction within a camera. If you head over to their website, you’ll be able to see an image of the patent in question.

The patent is straight forward: the idea of color correction in Apple’s device, would see it able to identify colors effectively when taking pictures – rather than just taking pictures depending on the lighting conditions.

What are your thoughts on Apple releasing a camera device in the market? Will it turn to gold like most of their other products? Most likely.

This patent clearly shows they are thinking about it though – give us your reaction to this.