The Apple Hybrid Netbook/Tablet is coming, just like we had predicted. We even got the Apple ‘Hybrid’ part right because it’s not just a netbook and it’s not just a Tablet, it’s exactly as we said – a hybrid. The new device will be more like a Netbook computer but will feature a touchscreen unlike any other netbook in the marketplace today.
According to Foxconn, Wintek, and Dynapack, they have all received orders from Apple to begin manufacturing the devices. These Taiwan-based supply companies have provided great information in the past on the new iPhone and other Apple products and with their track record of being right, this is a great source to rely on with this information.
The Apple Netbook/Tablet Hybrid media device, yet to be named, will come in the October time frame this year. Apple typically has a fall launch event for its iPod products and it’s very likely that the device could be unveiled during this same event.
The pricing of the new Apple device is still unknown. Many are stating around $800 but I tend to think it will be closer to the $700 price point. Clearly, at these prices, Apple has no desire to compete with existing Netbooks on the market, and rightfully so. This Apple device will be on a totally different playing field than the competition in terms of features, performance, and of course the legendary Apple App Store which will probably integrate with the device.
There are still many unknowns for the device such as what OS it will run, further hardware specs, and one that I have – will the screen rotate like tablets today?
Then of course, there’s the name of the device. What the heck will they call it? Surely something that start’s with an “i” but what? Perhaps the Apple iPad? Perhaps, but only if it were a touchscreen device only if it has a full keyboard like a Tablet, maybe it should be called the iTablet?