Definition: In this task, you will be presented with a passage and have to answer a question based on your understanding of the events inferred from the passage. Try to find the best answer that is most likely to fill in "_". Note that the URLs in the text have been replaced with [Link].
Input: (CNN) -- It's an odd pairing, really, the gadget-obsessed tech giant from Silicon Valley teaming up with hip-hop super producer Dr. Dre and music mogul Jimmy Iovine. But late Thursday, reports surfaced that a $3.2 billion deal was in the works for Apple to scoop up Beats Electronics, the world's most popular maker of headphones and, more recently, the company behind a highly regarded music-streaming service. Neither side has confirmed the deal, though Dre came dangerously close in a new video in which he declared himself "the first billionaire in hip-hop." For fans of Apple, Beats, or both, the main question here is obvious: If the reports are true, what will it mean for me, the consumer?Apple is reportedly close to buying headphone maker Beats ElectronicsThe tech giant could incorporate Beats research into "smart headphones"Analysts predict Beats brand, popular with young buyers, won't go awayThe deal would also boost Apple's music streaming potential 
 Question:Meanwhile, _ could tap into Beats' existing research and development and manufacturing knowhow to develop new products under the Apple name.

Apple