Apple Tablet Now Expected in February from AT&T

New evidence has emerged that AT&T will introduce its first Apple tablet computer early next year. Some pricing information and other details have also leaked out.

This device will go into production in December, and be released in February, according to a report in the Taiwan Economic Times, who cites parts suppliers in Taiwan as its source.

Size and Price
This same source says that Apple intends this tablet to cost between $800 and $1,000. This puts a limit on the hardware that can be included.

There were earlier unconfirmed reports indicating that Apple was considering a wide range of display sizes for this device, but the latest says that it will have a 9.6-inch touchscreen.

The Taiwanese sources also indicated that it will include a long-lasting battery pack.

AT&T and Not Verizon
Previous rumors have said that Apple will team up with Verizon Wireless for this model. However, today's report says that this tablet will include HSDPA, a different high-speed cellular wireless networking standard than the one Verizon uses.

AT&T, on the other hand, does have an HSDPA network. It's now looking more likely that Apple will stick with AT&T for all its cellular-wireless devices.

What Little We Know
There are still many questions about Apple's upcoming tablet, but leaks from generally reliable sources have revealed much of the functionality.

Whether it's a 3G connection or Wi-Fi, this device will supposedly have wireless access to the Internet, including iTunes. This will allow users to download music and also video to play on the relatively large display. In addition, it's expected to function as an ebook reader.

All of the features one would expect in a mobile computer will supposedly also be included: web browser, email software, etc.

Source: Taiwan Economic Times