Apple's rumoured smart television hardware will feature a wearable controller dubbed the iRing and launch with additional screens, according to a report, Digital Spy said.

Topeka Capital analyst Brian White claims to have visited Apple's supply sources in China and Taiwan, where prototype models of the so-called iTV sets are allegedly being developed.

White said that the iRing controller is designed to be worn on the user's finger, serving as a navigational pointer and taking on some of the functionality of a remote control, CNET reports.

The industry expert also believes that iTV will launch with support for additional screens, predicting that Apple will provide external "iPad mini-like" displays for viewing content in other rooms of the house.

"Essentially, we believe the "mini iTV" screens will be able to capture content from the 60-inch "iTV" across a distance of up to 200 meters, allowing a user to view "iTV" content in the kitchen, washroom, garage, bedroom, backyard, etc," said White.

"We believe Apple will offer one "mini iTV" per "iTV" but package options will include up to four screens."

Apple CEO Tim Cook recently confirmed that Apple is exploring "new categories" of products, but it is believed the company head may have been referring to the iOS-powered watch the firm is said to be working on.

However, White also believes that the purported iOS smartwatch will feature cross connectivity with iTV, eliminating the need to carry a smartphone around the home.

The analyst has tipped Apple to release a 60-inch connected television set in the latter part of 2013, priced between between $1,500 and $2,500.