Despite not yet even existing in the publics eyes one analyst writes that the tablet will have a similar launch pattern to its sibling, the iPhone.
Shaw Wu analyst for Kaufman Brothers writes that "the product would most likely not ship in volume until the June timeframe, as there may [be] minor issues that need more work including battery life and durability. We believe the timeline could be similar to the original iPhone, where it was announced in January 2007, but didn't ship until six months later."
In addition Wu goes onto discuss some of the rumours he's heard about the speculated Apple tablet.
- Act as an intermediary between the iPod touch/iPhone and Mac. "it is not intended to replace a Mac but to be somewhat of a 'super' iPod touch where video, gaming, web browsing, e-books, and the ability to run multiple apps, would be enhanced with the much larger screen."
- Believes that Wi-Fi would be the "most likely option" for internet access making no clear ruling out of 3G network access
- Estimates price point close to $999 but says that carrier subsidies could reduce cost
- Supply chain sources suggest Apple is looking to sell 5 million tablets in first year.