Rumors that Apple is planning to release some kind of tablet-type device in the near future have been gaining steam over the past few weeks, and now The Financial Times is on board with reports that it will hit store shelves in time for the holiday buying season. Apparently the device will launch along with new content deals from the entertainment industry, and will also include some type of Internet connectivity -- most likely Wi-Fi.
The entertainment industry seems to be excited about Apple's tablet. "It's a portable entertainment device," an unnamed entertainment executive commented. "It's going to be fabulous for watching movies."
The tablet may also offer interactive booklets and liner notes to go along with electronic album purchases, which is likely a move to help boost CD-length album sales.
Like other reports, the Financial Times is claiming the tablet will sport a 10-inch screen with multi-touch support, and will cost somewhere between US$600 and $1,000. It will also use iTunes to transfer music, video and applications, just like the iPhone and iPod touch.
Apple's tablet may also take on Amazon's Kindle ebook reader. Book publishers are already in talks with Apple to provide content, according to reports. One publishing executive commented "It would be a color, flat-panel TV to the old-fashioned, black and white TV of the Kindle."
Despite the growing number of rumors pointing to a pending tablet device release from Apple, the reports are still speculation. So far, Apple hasn't said that it has such a device in the works -- and since the company doesn't comment on rumor or speculation, reports of an Apple-branded tablet device should be treated as rumors until the Cupertino-based company makes an official announcement.