DigiTimes is claiming that Apple may delay the launch of the mythical tablet device, from the rumored launch of March of 2010 to the second half of 2010, due to final tweaking of the hardware.
DigiTimes sources claim Apple is working with Foxconn Electronics, Quanta Computer, and Pegatron Technology, in the manufacturing of two separate models of the device, one with a 10.6 TFT LCD screen and another with a 9.7 OLED screen. Reason for the delay? The sources claim the OLED device would cost somewhere near $2000, mainly due to the high prices of the OLED screen. As for the LDC version, it would cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $800-$1000. Another reason for the price difference might be a 3G enabled subsidized version of the device, which of course, would be less expensive.
I’m with John Gruber on this one.
Gruber:
So the big news so far today is this report in DigiTimes stating that Apple has delayed its tablet from March until “the second half of 2010” because of significant changes to the display components. Keep in mind that Apple has never publicly said a damn thing, not a word, about any new tablet computer, let alone ever stated that it was due in March. This is one of those stories where what they really mean is that Apple has missed a rumored deadline.
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This makes no sense to me. Why would Apple have two tablet models with entirely different displays that are only one inch different in size? We’re into the third year of the iPhone and there’s still just one single display type and form factor. Apple may well have placed orders for both these types of displays, but I say no way are both for tablet computers.
The OLED screen would really set the Apple Tablet apart, and as noted more expensive. But that is what the iPhone did. It was so revolutionary people were willing to pay more for it. A cell phone company subsidy would take the edge off. “Always” on the Internet capability makes sense for these kinds of devices. I for one would pay the price not to have to lug my laptop around. I love my iPhone, my MBP 15″ and my Dell Mini 9. I’d like to see a tablet replace my MBP for everyday tasks. I’m still waiting for my iPhone to operate directly with my MBP (remember the MacWorld Sony Erickson demo many years ago). Mr. Jobs throw that into the Apple Tablet. MobileMe is good but I want my tablet to more directly interact with my Apple laptops or future tablet.