Apple Tablet PC rumours suggest Summer 2010 launch

It’s turning out to be a busy day down at the Internet rumour mill, with speculation rife about Apple’s possible Tablet PC.

It all stems from a report by the Editor in Chief of the iLounge blog, which claims that a reliable source has confirmed a number of facts regarding the Tablet.

The first point being that it definitely exists, of course.

Other details include the fact that Apple has created three prototypes, the first version of which had a 7 inch screen that was deemed too small. The current version has a 10.7 inch display.

The resolution of the touchscreen will be around five to six times that of the iPhone, in other words around 720p, with seven times the touchable surface area.

Apparently it will use the iPhone operating system, and it will come in two variants, a 3G version, and one without 3G networking capabilities.

The device won’t be aimed at the netbook market. According to iLounge, the design philosophy is “to expand the iPhone and iPod touch media concept to its next potential level: As a slate-like replacement for books and magazines, plus all of the media, gaming, app, and web functionality of the iPhone and iPod touch.”

iLounge’s source also claims the Tablet is awaiting final approval by Steve Jobs, and its chances of becoming a reality are estimated to be 80%.

If it is approved, iLounge says the device will be announced in January 2010, with a view to a launch date in the summer. Plenty of time to let the hype sink in.