Apple has begun sending out invitations for an event on 27 January, where it is widely expected to unveil its tablet computer.
The event is shaping up to be Apple’s most eagerly anticipated product launch since the iPhone three years ago, despite the fact that the company has never acknowledged the existence of the tablet.
Although few details about the tablet are known for certain, the device is said to resemble a large version of the iPhone, with a roughly 10in touchscreen.
Analysts say such a device would try to bridge the gap between smartphones and laptops, allowing users to stream video, surf the web and play games while on the go.
If consumers do gravitate to the tablet, it could also propel Apple into the digital book market
Cost estimates on the tablet – which analysts expect to begin shipping in March or April – run upwards of $1,000. If consumers do gravitate to the tablet, it could also propel Apple into the digital book market popularized by Amazon’s Kindle eBook reader, analysts say.
The Wall Street Journal reported last week that HarperCollins Publishers was negotiating with Apple to make electronic books available for the tablet device, citing people familiar with the situation.
The tablet category is certainly seeing plenty of interest from Apple’s competitors of late. The Consumer Electronics Shows in Las Vegas earlier this month was practically bursting with tablets – or “slates” as some were called – many of them prototypes, from companies including HP, Dell and Lenovo.
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