You can file this fast moving rumor under "I wish" as the Financial Times UK is reporting that Apple is planning to launch the long fabled iTablet device as early as September along with new iPods. A full-featured, portable, tablet-sized computer with 3G data service is expected to be released in time for Apple to take advantage of the Christmas shopping season.
"The new touch-sensitive device Apple is working on will have a screen that may be up to 10 inches diagonally. It
will connect to the internet like the iPod Touch - probably without
phone capability but with access to Apple's online stores."
It's possible that the new device could be launched in tandem with fresh content deals Apple is working on with four of the largest record labels, directly aimed at stimulating sales of CD-length music, according to those close to the project.
"Apple is working with EMI, Sony Music, Warner Music and Universal Music Group, on a project the company has codenamed "Cocktail", according to four people familiar with the situation."
It's also rumored that record industry execs are counting on Apple to help resurrect the album, bundling interactive booklets including artwork, liner notes, and other unique content with the full album purchase. Reports confirm that the entertainment industry is placing high hopes on Apple, believing that the company can have the same overwhelming success with a tablet-sized media pad as they accomplished with both the iPod music player and legendary iPhone device.
"It's going to be fabulous for watching movies," said one entertainment executive.
According to some book publishers Apple's tablet will also provide mobile access to a book marketplace with new iTunes features created especially for the device.
Meanwhile Taipei, Taiwan paper Apple Daily, reports that Apple's longtime supplier Foxconn, who also manufactures the iPhone, is currently building the Apple tablet using a rumored 10-inch flat panel screen from WinTek. Apple Daily is also pimping a September or October launch date for an iTablet device which has become the Bigfoot of Apple products.
Like any other rumor, iTablet reports remain unconfirmed. AppIeInsider contests that an Apple tablet will not be launched until 2010 according to their own reliable sources. Though it never hurts to dream out loud since Apple submitted patents for a tablet device back in May of 2005. Two years before the launch of iPhone.
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