Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster tells clients in a note — as reported by “AppleInsider” (http://www.appleinsider.com) — that he still thinks Apple is planning on releasing its own television. Eventually.

Munster said recent meetings in Asia — not with component suppliers — suggested that Apple has put its “secret” US $3.9 billion investment toward securing displays for its range of products. He says Apple is believed to be investing in manufacturing facilities and securing supply for LCD displays.

Munster adds the investment could further signal Apple’s intention to enter the television market. The analyst has repeatedly forecast that Apple will introduce its own HDTV by the end of 2012 at the earliest.